Relating To The Hawaiian Homes Commission.
The enactment of HB 2763 is anticipated to facilitate the HHC's operations, particularly regarding legal matters where independent insight may be beneficial. The bill specifically amends existing statutes to ensure that the commission can engage independent counsel without needing the direct approval of the Attorney General, thereby streamlining the process. This change is expected to enhance the commission's efficiency in managing legal challenges and compliance issues concerning the management of Hawaiian lands provided under the trust.
House Bill 2763, introduced in the 2024 legislative session, relates to the Hawaiian Homes Commission (HHC) and addresses the commission's ability to retain independent legal counsel. This follows the long-standing mandates set forth by the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1920, which established lands designated for the benefit of native Hawaiians. The bill aims to empower the HHC in fulfilling its obligation towards the rehabilitation of the Hawaiian race by allowing it to secure independent legal representation when necessary while still providing access to services from the Attorney General as needed.
While there is broad agreement on the need for the HHC to have legal assistance, some concerns may arise regarding the implications of increased expenditures that this independence entails. The bill states that the appropriation for this legal counsel will exceed the state’s general fund expenditure ceiling for the fiscal year 2024-2025. This raises questions over budgetary priorities and the overall financial impact on the state's budget, wherein critics may argue for more accountability regarding expenditure on non-essential services.