Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB1553

Introduced

1/23/25

Refer

1/27/25

Report Pass

2/13/25

Refer

2/13/25

Report Pass

2/27/25

Engrossed

3/4/25

Refer

3/6/25

Refer

3/7/25

Caption

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would enable the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to secure land that is critical for the provision of services related to housing and community development for Native Hawaiians. The appropriation of funds over two fiscal years (2025-2026 and 2026-2027) suggests a significant commitment to addressing local needs regarding land and housing. The strategic purchase is intended to empower the department in fulfilling its mission, notably related to managing lands for homesteading and other purposes that benefit the Hawaiian populace.

Summary

SB1553, also known as the Act Relating to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, aims to appropriate funds for the purchase of a specific parcel of land. The bill identifies a parcel under tax map key (1) 9-1-013-025, which includes any existing structures on the site. The appropriation is drawn from the Act 279 special fund, which was established by the previous Act 125 and provides the necessary financing for this land acquisition. The intent behind the bill is to support the operations and responsibilities of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands in enhancing land management for the local Hawaiian community.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1553 is generally positive among stakeholders who recognize the importance of expanding housing opportunities and maintaining cultural legacy among Native Hawaiians. Supporters express that such measures are crucial in addressing historical injustices and ensuring that local governance can effectively manage land allocations for the benefit of the community. Critics, if any, would likely raise concerns about fiscal responsibility or alternative uses of the appropriated funds, though no substantial opposition seems to be noted in the current discussions.

Contention

While there appears to be strong legislative support for SB1553, potential points of contention could arise surrounding the specifics of the land purchase, including environmental implications or the adequacy of funds allocated. Additionally, discussions may touch upon the governance of the Hawaiian Home Lands and how effectively the department can utilize the funds to directly benefit the community. Overall, the emphasis is on fulfilling the needs of Native Hawaiians while also ensuring that the appropriation serves its intended purpose without complications.

Companion Bills

HI SB1553

Carry Over Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

Previously Filed As

HI SB1553

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

HI HB1353

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

HI HB1362

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

HI SB151

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

HI SB152

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

HI HB1408

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

HI HB1307

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

HI HB606

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Homelands.

HI HB581

Relating To Hawaiian Home Lands.

HI SB904

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

Similar Bills

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB280

PA SB1161

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.