Bill > SB1517

This bill modifies the rules for leasing public lands for recreational-residential use in Hawaii by establishing a new lottery system with specific requirements. The bill reduces the maximum lease term from twenty to five years and introduces provisions that allow lessees in good standing to directly negotiate a lease extension. The public lottery for these leases will be limited to residents of the county where the land is located, with provisions to open the lottery to all state residents or nonresidents if insufficient county residents participate. The bill defines "good standing" as a lessee being fully compliant with lease obligations and sets a $1,200 fee for lease transfers that will be annually adjusted based on economic indicators. Additional requirements include offering leases at fair market value, limiting one lease per recreation-residence, and giving preference to county residents who can demonstrate they will maintain the premises and preserve environmental, cultural, and scenic values. The bill also expands the Board of Land and Natural Resources' duties to include conducting lotteries and provides a clear process for lease extensions and transfers. The legislation is set to take effect on April 23, 2057, and does not impact rights or proceedings that existed before its effective date.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1517&year=2026