The proposed changes aim to streamline the review process for projects affecting historic properties by ensuring that applications are handled promptly. This legislation stands to significantly impact both state and private entities looking to engage in construction or renovations that involve historic properties, reducing delays that can historically plague these processes. By codifying a specific timeframe for approval or denial, the bill seeks to balance the urgency of development with the need for preserving cultural heritage.
Summary
House Bill 1928 is a legislative measure in Hawaii that seeks to enhance the efficiency of the state's historic preservation processes. The bill amends Chapter 6E of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, introducing a mandate that the state historic preservation division must make a determination on applications for public and private work within a strict forty-five-day timeframe. If the department fails to act within this period, the application is automatically deemed approved, facilitating faster project approvals while still maintaining a focus on preserving historic sites.
Contention
However, the bill may face opposition due to concerns about the potential undervaluation of historic preservation. Critics argue that a stringent timeline may pressure state officials to approve applications without thorough assessments, potentially leading to the irretrievable loss of historic resources. The requirement for written explanations upon application rejection could mitigate some of these concerns, but detractors fear this may not adequately safeguard against hasty decisions that could compromise the integrity of significant sites. Overall, discussions surrounding HB 1928 are likely to focus on finding an equilibrium between development needs and preservation responsibilities.