Hawaii Senate Bill SB4

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 1/16/25

Caption

Relating To The Royal Mausoleum.

Impact

The transfer of stewardship to the OHA will allow for more culturally sensitive approaches to the management of the Royal Mausoleum. This change could lead to increased engagement with Native Hawaiian traditions and values in the stewardship of the site. Additionally, it ensures that all existing policies and procedures related to the management of the mausoleum remain intact until revised by the OHA, allowing continuity during this transition period. The implications of this transfer also point towards a broader recognition of the rights and responsibilities of the OHA in managing state resources concerning cultural heritage.

Summary

Senate Bill 4 (SB4) pertains to the stewardship responsibilities of the Royal Mausoleum, Mauna Ala, a site of historical and cultural significance in Hawaii. The bill mandates the transfer of all functions, duties, and responsibilities of the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) related to the Royal Mausoleum to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA). This legislative move aims to enhance the oversight and management of the mausoleum by the OHA, ensuring that decisions reflect the interests of the Native Hawaiian community.

Contention

Despite the intended benefits, the bill has sparked discussion regarding the extent of the OHA’s authority and the potential fiscal and operational impacts of this transfer. Critics may voice concerns regarding the effectiveness of the OHA in managing such responsibilities compared to the experienced personnel at the DLNR. The legislative debate surrounding SB4 may also reflect broader themes regarding state control versus local, community-based management, highlighting the tensions that often accompany discussions of Native Hawaiian sovereignty and cultural preservation.