Bill > SB2341

This bill modifies existing laws regarding historic preservation in Hawaii to streamline the review process for projects that may affect historic properties. Specifically, it allows the State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) to conduct phased reviews for complex projects, such as those involving large land areas or staged construction, provided there's an agreement with the property owner on timelines. The bill also establishes clearer deadlines for the SHPD to provide written approval or denial of a project, with a provision that if the SHPD fails to respond within 90 days (or 30 days if no historic properties are impacted), the project can be assumed to be approved, allowing it to proceed. This aims to prevent delays by setting a timeframe for the SHPD's response and clarifying that the review period pauses if the applicant needs to provide more information. The bill also addresses situations where new historic properties are discovered during a project, requiring prompt notification to the SHPD and a swift response from them.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2341&year=2026