Bill > SB198

This bill addresses the leasing of public lands to the United States Department of Defense (DoD) or military branches by establishing new environmental and safety compliance requirements. Specifically, the bill prohibits the State of Hawaii from issuing or extending leases to the DoD or military branches if they are noncompliant with environmental orders, consent decrees, memoranda of agreement, or laws and rules affecting residents' health and safety. The bill requires the Board of Land and Natural Resources to request that the DoD add these compliance requirements to existing leases and provide an option for the military to fully remediate and restore leased lands to make them suitable for agriculture, residential use, and human habitation before the end of their lease term. The board must also submit reports to the legislature in 2026 and 2027 detailing the status of these requests and any related negotiations. The legislation stems from the state's role as a landlord and its responsibility to protect Hawaii's environment, natural resources, and residents' well-being. The bill will take effect upon approval and does not impact any rights, penalties, or proceedings that existed before its effective date.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=198&year=2025