Hawaii Senate Bill SCR206

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/12/25

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands, Department Of Land And Natural Resources, University Of Hawaii, And Land Use Commission To Provide Enhanced Public Notice For Changes In Land Use Or Boundary Changes.

Impact

SCR206 is anticipated to improve community engagement in the land use decision-making process. It highlights the need for affected communities to have the opportunity to learn about proposed changes and to express their concerns. This reflects a growing recognition of the link between environmental stewardship, public health, and the preservation of cultural practices. By implementing enhanced notice requirements, local residents will have a structured platform to participate in discussions and voicing their opinions on developments that impact their lives and surroundings.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 206 (SCR206) seeks to enhance public notice requirements for changes in land use or boundary changes in Hawaii. The resolution specifically requests the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, the Department of Land and Natural Resources, the University of Hawaii, and the Land Use Commission to adopt more robust notification processes. The intent behind this resolution is to promote greater transparency in the construction permitting process and to ensure that community members are adequately informed about projects that may affect their neighborhoods.

Contention

Some notable points of contention surrounding SCR206 might arise from concerns about how effectively these enhanced notice measures can be implemented. Potential issues include the timely provision of information and the genuine consideration of community feedback. Critics may argue that despite improved notice, the actual decision-making processes could still prioritize economic interests over community welfare. Moreover, the resolution may also face resistance from developers or businesses worried about delays in project timelines due to the required public meetings and notifications.