Relating To Interim Administrative Rules Of The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.
The approval of SB1355 is expected to significantly reduce the length of time required to implement new administrative rules related to Hawaiian Home Lands. By granting the department the authority to issue interim rules post-consultation, the bill seeks to address the urgency of rule implementation in response to the needs expressed by Hawaiian beneficiaries. The streamlined process could enhance the Department's responsiveness to community issues, albeit for a limited duration as they work toward establishing more permanent regulations.
Senate Bill 1355 aims to streamline the administrative rulemaking process for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. This bill allows the Department to implement interim rules that can take effect more quickly by exempting them from the conventional requirements of public notice, public hearings, and gubernatorial approval, as codified in Chapter 91 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. The interim rules will be valid for a maximum of eighteen months, during which the Department can work towards adopting permanent rules. This approach is based on conducting beneficiary consultations with lessees, applicants, and native Hawaiians as specified by the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1920.
While proponents argue that the ability to issue interim rules will facilitate timely decision-making and improve governance within the Hawaiian Home Lands, there may be concerns regarding the lack of public transparency and engagement due to the bypassing of typical public notice and hearing requirements. Critics might argue that this could lead to insufficient scrutiny of the interim rules, potentially compromising the interests of the very beneficiaries they are intended to serve. Balancing efficient rulemaking with adequate public involvement remains a notable point of contention within the discussions surrounding SB1355.