Bill > SB457

This bill addresses the regulation of submerged public lands and lands beneath tidal waters in Hawaii, primarily in response to sea-level rise challenges. It establishes strict penalties for unauthorized reclamation of these lands, including daily fines of at least $500, potential injunctions, and mandatory removal of any unauthorized structures or fill at the owner's expense. The bill provides detailed conditions under which the Board of Land and Natural Resources can dispose of or lease previously reclaimed lands, including requirements that such disposition must not be prejudicial to state or community interests, must preserve public shore access, and must minimize environmental impact. For new leases of submerged lands, the bill mandates that lessees assume full liability, cover all repair and maintenance costs, agree to remove structures at lease termination, and meet specific environmental and permitting requirements. The legislation aims to create a more comprehensive and controlled approach to managing coastal lands in the face of rising sea levels, preventing piecemeal development that could potentially harm shoreline ecosystems and frustrate broader state adaptation planning efforts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=457&year=2025