Bill > SB524

This bill addresses land acquisition in Honolulu by authorizing the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to exercise eminent domain to acquire specific parcels of land. The bill is motivated by Honolulu's population growth of 6.6% between 2010 and 2020, which has created a need for expanded infrastructure and community spaces. Specifically, the legislation allows DBEDT to purchase 19 distinct tax map key parcels (identified by unique numerical codes) to be used for economic development and community needs. The bill appropriates state general revenue funds for the acquisition, though the exact monetary amount is not specified in the text. These parcels are all located within the same tax map key area (1-2-6-024), suggesting they are geographically proximate. The land acquisition is intended to help address the city's infrastructure challenges and provide additional spaces for community activities. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving DBEDT time to prepare for the land acquisition process. Eminent domain, referenced in the bill, is a legal process that allows the government to acquire private property for public use, typically with fair compensation to the property owners.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=524&year=2026