Bill > SB1406

This bill modifies the historic preservation review process for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL), allowing the department to independently review the potential impacts of proposed projects on historic properties or burial sites located on lands under its jurisdiction. Specifically, the bill requires that DHHL designate a qualified preservation officer with professional experience to conduct these reviews, ensure all review documents are shared with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, and provide notification of their review process. The bill maintains an important exception: the state Department of Land and Natural Resources will retain review authority for any projects affecting properties listed or nominated for inclusion in the Hawaii or national registers of historic places. The legislative intent behind this bill is to streamline the historic preservation review process for DHHL by enabling the department to conduct its own reviews while still maintaining important documentation and notification requirements, ultimately aiming to make the review process more efficient while preserving cultural and historical protections.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1406&year=2025