Hawaii Senate Bill SCR238

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/12/25

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Relocate, With Dignity, The Homeless Encampments From The Waianae Small Boat Harbor And Provide A Timeline For Removal.

Impact

The resolution aims to mitigate disturbances caused by the encampments, which have reportedly hindered people from accessing their boats and utilizing the harbor effectively. By prompting the DLNR to develop a clear timeline for the removal of these encampments, SCR238 seeks to enhance the overall utility of the harbor for the community while also addressing the needs of homeless individuals. Such actions may lead to more organized and acceptable solutions that consider both the community’s welfare and the dignity of the homeless.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 238 (SCR238) focuses on addressing the issue of homeless encampments located at the Waianae Small Boat Harbor in Hawaii. The resolution requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to facilitate the relocation of these encampments in a manner that upholds the dignity of the displaced individuals. This initiative is underscored by increasing reports of conflict between encampments and public access, as well as damage to property, thus presenting a pressing concern for local users of the harbor.

Contention

While the resolution positions itself quite positively towards the orderly removal of homeless individuals from the harbor, it does raise important questions around how the relocation will be managed. The potential for contention stems from concerns regarding the adequacy of resources to provide support and alternative housing for those displaced. Furthermore, there could be debates on the prioritization of public resources and whether the proposed actions genuinely serve the best interests of both the local community and the individuals facing homelessness.