Hawaii House Bill HR182

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 3/29/22
• Passed: 3/29/22

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Conduct Public Forums To Solicit Input From The Community Regarding The Lease Of State Lands To The Military.

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the importance of community engagement in decision-making processes that affect local land usage. It recognizes that military activities on public land have sometimes conflicted with the state's commitment to environmental conservation and the well-being of its residents. Historical grievances, such as contamination from military sites and the improper management of unexploded ordnance, have fueled public skepticism about the military's stewardship of these lands. By requesting public forums, the resolution aims to address these concerns transparently and collaboratively.

Summary

House Resolution 182, introduced during the Thirty-first Legislature of Hawaii, requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources to conduct public forums for community input regarding the lease of state lands to the military. The resolution stems from concerns surrounding military usage of state lands and aims to open a dialogue with local communities about the benefits and drawbacks of these leases. As many leases are nearing expiration, the resolution seeks to reassess these arrangements and determine whether the lands should be renewed for military use or returned to the people of Hawaii.

Contention

There are notable points of contention regarding the military's use of public land. Critics argue that past military operations have resulted in significant environmental damage and health hazards, which must be weighed against any potential benefits of continued military leases. Additionally, the resolution suggests the possibility of placing restrictions or conditions on future leases to ensure better management and accountability. The military's role in community consultation and the long-term implications for land use will likely be central themes in the discussions during the proposed forums.