Bill > SB1017

This bill amends Section 171-6 of Hawaii Revised Statutes to expand the powers of the Board of Land and Natural Resources by allowing it to adopt federal regulations related to public lands that existed as of January 1, 2025, if the board determines they are in the public interest. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision to the board's existing rule-making authority that enables it to implement federal regulations covering a wide range of areas including soil conservation, forests and forest reserves, aquatic life, wildlife resources, state parks, historic sites, and various ocean and coastal programs. The bill preserves the board's existing powers, such as setting fees, establishing land use restrictions, reducing lease rentals under certain conditions, and imposing fines for unauthorized land use or environmental violations. By explicitly authorizing the board to adopt federal regulations as of a specific date, the bill provides the board with additional flexibility to manage and protect Hawaii's public lands and natural resources, while ensuring that only regulations existing as of January 1, 2025, can be adopted without further legislative approval.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1017&year=2026