Requesting The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The Moneys Appropriated To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Pursuant To Act 279, Session Laws Of Hawaii 2022.
Act 279 specifically mandates the DHHL to develop a strategic plan for housing that aligns with the preferences of native Hawaiian beneficiaries. As per the 2020 Beneficiaries Study, a majority of beneficiaries expressed a preference for single-family homes or vacant lots for construction. However, despite the allocation of substantial resources, the DHHL's reports indicate that as of 2024, over 28,700 individuals remained on the waitlist, and only a small fraction of applicants had been assisted, illustrating significant concerns over the efficacy of the DHHL's operations.
House Resolution 78, introduced in the Thirty-third Legislature of Hawaii in 2025, requests that the Auditor conduct an audit of the funds appropriated to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) under Act 279 of the Session Laws of Hawaii 2022. This audit aims to ensure accountability for the significant $600 million allocated to assist native Hawaiians by eliminating the waitlist for housing. The resolution underscores the importance of transparency in how these funds are utilized, as intended by the legislation.
The call for an audit arises partly due to the DHHL's inability to meet reporting requirements under Act 279, where they have not submitted their Annual Activity Report by the mandated deadline. Critics argue that this lack of transparency raises red flags regarding the management and distribution of funds allocated to address the pressing housing needs of native Hawaiians. Therefore, the requested audit seeks to assess not only the financial aspects but also adherence to the strategic planning goals set forth in the original acts.