Relating To Employment In The State Historic Preservation Program.
Impact
The bill is significant as it looks to refine the staffing structure of the State Historic Preservation Program, potentially allowing for more specialized and skilled personnel to address the complex demands of historic preservation in Hawaii. This could lead to improved administration of programs related to historical, architectural, and archaeological research, as well as the management of burial sites and historic properties.
Summary
SB1463 aims to amend sections 6E-3 and 76-16(b) of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to enhance the State's Historic Preservation Program by allowing the Department of Land and Natural Resources to employ professional and technical staff who fall under both civil service and non-civil service classifications. This change is intended to improve the operational efficiency of the historic preservation division, enabling it to better manage its responsibilities around preserving Hawaii's cultural and historical resources.
Contention
One notable point of contention revolves around the balance of employment classifications within the state. Critics may express concerns regarding the implications of employing non-civil service staff, viewing it as a potential shift away from the stability and accountability typically associated with civil service positions. The bill, however, is presented as a means to ensure that the division is staffed adequately to fulfill its mission, which encompasses various aspects of historic property management and public engagement.