Bill > SB268

This bill modifies the composition and structure of Island Burial Councils in Hawaii, which play a critical role in preserving and protecting iwi kupuna (ancestral remains) with cultural and spiritual significance for Native Hawaiians. The bill reduces the number of council members from nine to seven for most islands (with Moloka'i remaining at five members) and eliminates the previous requirement to include representatives from development and large property owner interests. Instead, the councils will continue to be composed of regional representatives selected from the Hawaiian community based on their deep understanding of Native Hawaiian cultural practices, burial beliefs, customs, and history. The bill specifically notes that at least two regional representatives must be nominated by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, and each council must include representatives from specific geographic regions of their respective islands. The legislation aims to align the councils' composition more closely with traditional Hawaiian values of malama iwi kupuna (caring for ancestral remains), focusing on cultural understanding and respect rather than development or property ownership perspectives. The changes will take effect on July 1, 3000, and the councils will continue to be administratively part of the department and serve without compensation, with reimbursement for necessary expenses.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=268&year=2025