Relating To Historic Preservation Reviews.
This bill is significant as it would alter existing state laws that currently require the DHHL to consult with the Department of Land and Natural Resources before any proposed project can proceed. By transferring such review capabilities directly to DHHL, the bill not only reinforces the authority of the department over Hawaiian-owned lands but also emphasizes the cultural and historical considerations regarding development in these areas. This is particularly important for projects that may affect burial sites and properties of cultural significance to Native Hawaiians.
SB1354 is a legislative bill that aims to empower the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) to take on the responsibility of reviewing the impact of proposed projects on historic properties and burial sites located on lands under its jurisdiction. The bill proposes amendments to the Hawaii Revised Statutes section 6E-8(b), allowing DHHL to consult and designate a qualified preservation officer to manage these reviews. This shift is an attempt to streamline the process and ensure that historical and cultural sites within Hawaiian homeland lands are adequately protected during project developments.
While the bill may be well-received by those who advocate for native rights and the preservation of Hawaiian heritage, there could also be points of contention surrounding the implications of delegating such authority exclusively to DHHL. Concerns may arise about the preservation officer’s qualifications, resource availability, and the potential for conflicts of interest between developmental interests and preservation priorities. The requirement for DHHL to consult the Office of Hawaiian Affairs when reviewing properties important to Native Hawaiians further underscores the complexity of the issue and the potential for debate on the effectiveness of such consultations.
SB1354 is set to take effect on July 1, 2050, which indicates a forward-thinking approach to historic preservation, allowing ample time for associated procedural changes and adjustments in legislative and administrative practices. The bill passed with amendments in the Senate Water and Land committee with a voting tally of 4 in favor and 1 against, highlighting a generally supportive legislative environment, although it reflects ongoing discussions about how best to balance development needs with preservation efforts.