Hawaii House Bill HR199

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/14/25
• Report Pass: 3/27/25
• Refer: 3/27/25
• Refer: 4/17/25
• Passed: 4/17/25

Caption

Urging The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Conduct A Comprehensive Economic Analysis Of All Military-leased Lands.

Impact

If passed, HR199 could significantly affect the management of military leases in Hawaii, especially as many leases are set to expire in 2029. The analysis proposed in the resolution would assess potential lost economic opportunities for the state, costs associated with cleanup and restoration, and the income that could have been generated if the lands had been leased at fair market rates. The resolution advocates for a thorough evaluation to inform future negotiations involving lease renewals, ensuring that economic assessments reflect the harms and benefits of military occupancy on these lands.

Summary

House Resolution 199 (HR199) proposes to urge the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) in Hawaii to conduct a comprehensive economic analysis of all military-leased lands, particularly those that are part of the public land trust. The resolution highlights that the U.S. military currently occupies over 200,000 acres of these lands, including major facilities such as Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and Schofield Barracks. The resolution underscores the historical context relating to Native Hawaiian sovereignty and suggests that previous lease agreements have not accounted for the true value of the land, nor the environmental degradation that has occurred due to military use.

Contention

There is an acknowledgment of the tension surrounding the military presence on these lands. Opponents may argue that the military’s use of land is vital for national defense, while proponents of HR199 emphasize the need for transparency and accountability in lease negotiations. Critics may also argue that the impacts on the environment and indigenous rights must be prioritized, reflecting broader tensions between military interests and local community needs. Therefore, HR199 not only addresses economic aspects but also underlines the importance of community engagement and stakeholder inclusion in the processes that determine the future use of these lands.