Bill > HB1323

This bill aims to streamline the transfer of certain public lands from the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to the Department of Agriculture (DOA), specifically focusing on lands primarily used for agricultural purposes. The legislation builds upon previous acts (Act 90 from 2003 and Act 139 from 2021) and seeks to remove previous approval requirements from both the Board of Land and Natural Resources and the Board of Agriculture. The bill mandates that the DOA shall accept and manage qualifying non-agricultural park lands upon approval by its own board, with a specific focus on lands designated for intensive agricultural use, special livestock use, and pasture use. Importantly, the bill clarifies that conservation lands not currently in agricultural use will remain under DLNR's jurisdiction. The legislative intent is to ensure long-term productive use of public lands for agricultural purposes, in alignment with the Hawaii State Constitution's provisions about using public lands for farm development. The bill does not affect existing rights, penalties, or proceedings, and is set to take effect on July 1, 3000 (which appears to be a placeholder date).

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1323&year=2025