Bill > SR170

This resolution requests the Hawaii State Auditor to conduct a comprehensive audit of the funds appropriated to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) through Act 279, which allocated $600 million to eliminate the Native Hawaiian housing waitlist. The resolution highlights that as of 2022, over 28,700 Native Hawaiian beneficiaries were on the waitlist, and by January 2024, DHHL reported encumbering and expending approximately $193.7 million, assisting 1,489 applicants. The audit is sought because DHHL had not submitted its required Annual Activity Report by March 5, 2025, and the resolution aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of these funds. The audit will specifically examine the expenditures in relation to the 2020 Beneficiaries Study Applicant Report, which revealed that 76% of beneficiaries prefer single-family homes or vacant lots, and 16% prefer rental or rent-to-own options. The resolution requests that copies of the resolution be sent to the Auditor and the Chairperson of the Hawaiian Homes Commission.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SR&billnumber=170&year=2025