Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB2843

Introduced
1/21/22  
Refer
1/24/22  

Caption

Relating To The Leasing Of Public Lands By The Military.

Impact

The bill stipulates that all lease agreements with the military must include a management plan that prioritizes the public interest and employs reasonable management practices to prevent degradation of resources. Leases will be limited to a maximum term of ten years without renewal, and lessees will need to provide annual reports detailing compliance with the management plan. The intent is to ensure that military activities on public lands are conducted responsibly and in alignment with the state’s environmental goals, significantly limiting the military's operational leeway compared to current practices.

Summary

Senate Bill 2843 seeks to modify the leasing process of public lands by the military in Hawaii, ensuring stronger oversight and accountability to protect the state’s natural and cultural resources. The bill mandates that applicants intending to lease public lands must consult with public trust beneficiaries prior to submitting their applications, fostering a more inclusive process. This requirement aims to address past grievances regarding the military's use of public lands, which have historically raised environmental and public health concerns due to neglect and contamination.

Contention

Notably, the bill has emerged from a legislative recognition of past failures in managing military leases, especially regarding contamination incidents at military facilities like the Red Hill underground storage site. By introducing strict requirements for lease applications, the bill aims to rectify these issues and impose liability on the military for maintaining the integrity of public lands. However, it could lead to contention from military representatives who may argue that such restrictions could hinder their operational effectiveness and readiness.

Further_significance

Overall, SB2843 reflects a shift toward prioritizing local community interests and environmental integrity in land management policies. By encouraging public consultation and enhancing lease oversight, Hawaii is asserting its commitment to sustainable practices while holding military operations accountable for their environmental impact. This enduring legacy may lead to a more engaged citizenry, prompting greater advocacy for public land stewardship in the future.

Companion Bills

HI HB2317

Same As Relating To The Leasing Of Public Lands By The Military.

Previously Filed As

HI HB1177

Relating To Public Land Dispositions.

HI SB620

Relating To Public Lands.

HI SB2593

Relating To Federal Lands.

HI HR87

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Convene A Makua Valley Task Force To Prepare For The Transition Of The Management Of The Makua Military Reservation From The United States Army To The State.

HI HCR106

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Convene A Makua Valley Task Force To Prepare For The Transition Of The Management Of The Makua Military Reservation From The United States Army To The State.

HI HB697

Relating To Federal Lands.

HI HB2117

Relating To Federal Lands.

HI SB521

Relating To Military Land Use.

HI SB100

Relating To The Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission.

HI HB354

Relating To The Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission.

Similar Bills

NJ S2981

Establishes NJ Military Family Relief Fund; provides for designation on State gross income tax return to permit taxpayers to make voluntary contributions to military family relief fund.

NJ S2441

Establishes NJ Military Family Relief Fund; provides for designation on State gross income tax return to permit taxpayers to make voluntary contributions to military family relief fund.

NJ A883

Establishes NJ Military Family Relief Fund; provides for designation on State gross income tax return to permit taxpayers to make voluntary contributions to military family relief fund.

NJ A2712

Establishes NJ Military Family Relief Fund; provides for designation on State gross income tax return to permit taxpayers to make voluntary contributions to military family relief fund.

CA AB1883

Child care and development services.

CA SB1071

Public postsecondary education: Chancellor of the California Community Colleges: policy to award course credit for prior military education, training, and service.

CA AB3131

Law enforcement agencies: military equipment: funding, acquisition, and use.

CA AB481

Law enforcement and state agencies: military equipment: funding, acquisition, and use.