Bill > SB2176

This bill requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to create and maintain a public online database of all areas eligible for right-of-entry permits, which are permits allowing commercial photography, film, and other uses on unencumbered state shoreline lands. The DLNR must also establish clear criteria for adding or removing areas from this database and provide public notice and seek input before making such changes, except in emergencies where immediate action is needed to protect public safety or resources, in which case a written justification must be provided within 72 hours. A public "changelog" will document all additions and removals, including the date, approving official, and justification. If a permittee's access is revoked due to an area being removed from the database, the DLNR must notify them promptly and they may be eligible for reimbursement of permit fees or a credit towards a future permit. The bill also mandates the DLNR to establish an administrative hearing and review process for permittees to seek reimbursement and to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism and the Hawaii Film Office for better interagency coordination. Finally, the DLNR is required to revise its existing "Wiki Permits" service to align with these new procedures, ensure consistency across its forms and digital interfaces, submit an annual report to the Legislature, and has been appropriated $200,000 to implement these changes.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2176&year=2026