Bill > HB144

This bill addresses the management of Mauna Kea by providing flexibility for the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority during its five-year transition period. Recognizing the historical tension between cultural preservation and scientific research on Mauna Kea, the bill allows two or more members of the authority (including a number that would constitute a quorum) to meet and discuss the authority's business without strictly adhering to traditional public meeting laws. The key restriction is that these meetings cannot involve making commitments to vote or making actual decisions; any decision-making must occur during formally noticed public meetings. This approach is intended to help diverse stakeholders engage in open, frank discussions to rebuild trust and work through complex issues surrounding Mauna Kea's management. The legislation stems from Act 255 of 2022, which established the authority, and aims to provide a more culturally sensitive approach to managing the mountain while maintaining public transparency and accountability. The bill specifically amends Chapter 195H of Hawaii Revised Statutes to explicitly allow these more flexible meeting interactions during the transition period.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=144&year=2025