Bill > SB770

This bill addresses meeting requirements for the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority during its five-year transition period, providing flexibility for members to have open discussions about complex, culturally sensitive issues. Recognizing historical tensions between cultural preservation and scientific research on Mauna Kea, the bill allows two or more authority members (including a number that would constitute a quorum) to meet and discuss the authority's business without strictly adhering to standard public meeting laws. However, these meetings come with important restrictions: no commitments to vote can be made or sought, and any actual decision-making must occur only during formally noticed meetings. The legislation stems from Act 255 of 2022, which established the authority to improve trust and management of Mauna Kea, and acknowledges the challenging task of bringing together diverse stakeholders who have experienced decades of distrust. By providing this meeting flexibility, the bill aims to facilitate more constructive dialogue while maintaining public transparency and preventing behind-the-scenes decision-making.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=770&year=2025