The establishment of this task force has potential wide-ranging effects on state laws regarding land management and indigenous rights. The bill mandates discussions with the United States Army to expedite the return of the valley reserve and outlines a framework for holding the transferred land in public trust for the benefit of the state and recognized native Hawaiian entities. This approach not only reflects a commitment to restoring native land rights but also addresses environmental concerns through the requirement for cleanup of unexploded ordnance on the site.
Summary
House Bill 697 aims to establish a task force within the Department of Land and Natural Resources in Hawaii to prepare for the management transition of the Makua military reservation from the United States Army upon the expiration of its lease. This task force will be responsible for planning the transition of this federal land back to state management, with specific attention to ensuring environmental cleanup and cultural access for native Hawaiians. The bill emphasizes collaborative efforts between various stakeholders and governmental agencies to facilitate a smooth transition.
Contention
While the bill represents a significant step towards the return of land to local management, it may provoke contention among various stakeholders. Some may argue about the pace and effectiveness of the Army's cleanup efforts and whether the task force could adequately balance conservation and development interests. The involvement of native Hawaiian representatives aims to ensure that their cultural and historical ties to the land are respected, but differing opinions on land use and access rights may lead to debates about the actual implementation of the task force's recommendations as well as future legislative proposals.
Urging The Board Of Land And Natural Resources To Establish A Task Force To Prepare A Feasibility Plan For The Transition Of The Management Of The Makua Military Reservation To The State From The United States Army Upon The Expiration Of General Lease Number S-3848.
Urging The Board Of Land And Natural Resources To Establish A Task Force To Prepare A Feasibility Plan For The Transition Of The Management Of The Makua Military Reservation To The State From The United States Army Upon The Expiration Of General Lease Number S-3848.
Urging The Board Of Land And Natural Resources To Establish A Task Force To Prepare A Feasibility Plan For The Transition Of The Management Of The Makua Military Reservation To The State From The United States Army Upon The Expiration Of General Lease Number S-3848.
Urging The Board Of Land And Natural Resources To Establish A Task Force To Prepare A Feasibility Plan For The Transition Of The Management Of The Makua Military Reservation To The State From The United States Army Upon The Expiration Of General Lease Number S-3848.
Requesting The United States Department Of Defense To Provide An Annual Report To The Legislature On The Availability And Affordability Of Military Housing In Hawaii.
Requesting The United States Department Of Defense To Provide An Annual Report To The Legislature On The Availability And Affordability Of Military Housing In Hawaii.