Bill > SB739

This bill addresses Hawaii's agricultural self-sufficiency and housing crises by establishing a mechanism for land exchanges between the state and private parties. The governor is authorized to negotiate land swaps, subject to approval by the Board of Land and Natural Resources, where the state can acquire large tracts of suitable agricultural lands in exchange for state-owned urban lands to be developed for affordable, workforce, and other housing. The bill aims to help farmers access agricultural lands while providing private developers opportunities to create housing, particularly near rail transit stations in Honolulu. To facilitate these exchanges, the governor can reclassify and rezone lands, and private developments will be exempt from certain procurement requirements and impact fees. The exchanges are designed to be mutually beneficial, with state lands transferred to private parties including restrictive covenants mandating housing development. The governor is required to submit a detailed report to the legislature by late 2025, outlining the feasibility of potential land exchanges, listing suitable parcels, and describing their market value. The legislature may then convene a special session to review and act on the proposed exchanges. The bill's ultimate goals are to increase agricultural production, support food self-sufficiency, and address the state's critical housing shortage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=739&year=2025