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HI SB457

Relating To State Lands.


summary

Introduced
01/16/2025
In Committee
01/21/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Establishes penalties for failure to comply with certain submerged land reclamation regulations. Adds requirements for presently reclaimed land to be disposed of by the Board of Land and Natural Resources, without recourse to public auction, to an abutting owner, by sale, or by lease. Provides requirements for the Board of Land and Natural Resources to lease state submerged lands and lands beneath tidal waters.

AI Summary

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.

Committee Categories

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

The committee on WTL deferred the measure. (on 02/05/2025)

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