Hawaii Senate Bill SCR93

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22
• Report Pass: 4/4/22
• Engrossed: 4/5/22
• Refer: 4/6/22

Caption

Urging The United States Government To Support Co-stewardship Of Wahi Kupuna With The Native Hawaiian Community With Regards To Lands Under Federal, State, And Local Government Authority.

Impact

If adopted, SCR93 would not enact new laws but would express the state's support for collaborating with federal and state authorities to ensure that Native Hawaiian interests are respected regarding land stewardship. The resolution calls for a cooperative approach in managing wahi kūpuna by advocating for the involvement of Native Hawaiian organizations in resource management discussions and initiatives, thereby strengthening the representation of Native Hawaiian perspectives in environmental decision-making.

Summary

SCR93 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution urging the United States government to support co-stewardship of wahi kūpuna, which are ancestral lands significant to the Native Hawaiian community. The resolution emphasizes the importance of these sites in maintaining cultural identity and well-being among Native Hawaiians. It highlights the threats these areas face from development and the financial disparities they experience relative to other natural resources in Hawaii.

Contention

One notable point of contention arising from the discussions surrounding SCR93 is the balance between development and preservation of wahi kūpuna. Proponents argue that the co-stewardship model would emphasize cultural preservation and empower Native Hawaiian communities to take active roles in managing their ancestral lands. However, there may be concerns regarding potential resistance from developers and government entities that prioritize economic growth over cultural and environmental considerations.