Bill > SB210

This bill aims to modify Hawaii's approach to public lands leased to the United States military, primarily focusing on environmental protection and land use restrictions. Effective July 1, 2025, the bill prohibits the Department of Land and Natural Resources from approving or renewing any land dispositions to the U.S. military that would allow or facilitate military training activities. The bill requires that any future leases or lease extensions with the Department of Defense must include provisions acknowledging the State of Hawaii's authority over environmental matters and the health and safety of its residents. Specifically, the lease agreements must explicitly state that violations of state or federal environmental laws or regulations affecting public health can be grounds for lease termination. The legislation is motivated by historical concerns about environmental damage and misuse of public lands by the military, referencing specific locations like Kahoolawe, Waikane, Makua, and Pohakuloa where environmental contamination and unexploded ordnance have been significant issues. The bill is grounded in the state constitution's mandate to conserve and protect Hawaii's natural resources, embodying the principle of "malama aina" (caring for the land), and seeks to ensure that public lands are managed responsibly and for the benefit of present and future generations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=210&year=2025