Relating To Burial Sites.
The bill proposes the creation of an inter-division program within the Department of Land and Natural Resources that includes collaboration with various stakeholders, such as the State Historic Preservation Division, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, and local island councils. This program will focus on identifying at-risk burial sites and outlining appropriate measures to relocate iwi to safer, culturally significant areas further inland, thereby preserving their historical context and community relations.
SB2295 is a legislative bill aimed at addressing the pressing threat of coastal erosion on traditional Hawaiian burial sites, known as iwi. The bill recognizes the cultural significance of these burial traditions among Native Hawaiians, emphasizing that they are integral to the genealogical and cultural continuity of the community. Given the increasing risks posed by climate change, including rising sea levels and extreme weather events, this bill seeks to establish a comprehensive strategy for the preservation and relocation of iwi to protect these cultural sites from being compromised or lost due to erosion.
The sentiment surrounding SB2295 is largely supportive among those who advocate for cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. Many stakeholders recognize the importance of integrating cultural heritage with modern environmental challenges, viewing this legislation as a proactive step in safeguarding Hawaiian heritage. However, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications of relocation and the execution of the program, particularly among local communities that need to approve such changes.
Notable points of contention may arise around the logistics of moving iwi, such as costs and the approval process involving recognized descendants. There may also be debates about the priorities of state funding, particularly since the bill acknowledges that it will exceed the state general fund expenditure ceiling for fiscal year 2024-2025. This could lead to discussions on balancing cultural preservation with economic constraints and the effectiveness of proposed measures in protecting these sites in the long term.