Bill > SB625

This bill transforms the governance of Hawaiian Home Lands by establishing an elected Hawaiian Homes Commission and Director, replacing the current system of gubernatorial appointments. The bill requires commission members and the director to be native Hawaiian beneficiaries who have been state residents for at least three years, are at least 18 years old, and are qualified to vote. Commissioners and the director will be elected every two years in conjunction with general elections, with term limits of two terms (four total years) for commissioners and an unspecified number of terms for the director. The nine-member commission will have geographically distributed seats representing different counties and islands of Hawaii, ensuring representation from Honolulu, Hawaii, Maui, and Kauai. The bill was prompted by longstanding challenges in the Hawaiian Homes Commission, including a significant waitlist for land distribution (over 29,000 people) and concerns raised after the 2023 Maui wildfires. Candidates must undergo an examination and submit an affidavit verifying their qualifications, and the election costs will be covered by the Hawaiian Home Lands Trust Fund. The bill requires congressional approval and will take effect upon receiving both state and federal consent.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=625&year=2026