Hawaii House Bill HCR151

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/14/25

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Submit A Detailed Report On Its Lease Enforcement Process And Procedures.

Impact

The resolution calls upon the DLNR to elaborate on its policies and procedures, particularly regarding how it assesses lease compliance. There are significant implications for state laws surrounding the leasing of public lands, where transparency in lease enforcement is necessary to reassure the public and policymakers alike. The report would include comprehensive data on lease violations and the rationale for revocations or non-renewals, which underscores the legislative intent to enhance accountability within the department.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 151 (HCR151) was introduced during the Thirty-third Legislature of Hawaii in 2025, with the primary objective of requesting the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to provide a detailed report on its lease enforcement processes and procedures. This initiative stems from concerns regarding the stewardship and management of the state’s natural and cultural resources, highlighting the importance of responsible land use, environmental protection, and compliance with applicable laws. It directly addresses a need for clarity in how the department administers leases and monitors adherence to their terms.

Contention

One notable aspect of HCR151 is the evidence suggesting that certain lessees, including military entities, may have violated their lease agreements, raising public concern over environmental damage and unauthorized land usage. Critics argue that without adequate enforcement and public disclosure, the integrity of the state's natural resources could be compromised. Thus, the calls for a detailed report not only aim to improve future compliance but also to bolster public trust in the DLNR’s operations and policies regarding land leases.