The bill amends Chapter 269 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to explicitly restrict public or private utilities from being owned or controlled by entities that are not American citizens or companies. This change is intended to strengthen the state’s control over vital resources and mitigate risks posed by foreign interference, ensuring the resilience and security of Hawaii’s infrastructure against evolving threats. By imposing these restrictions, the legislation aims to preserve public trust and enhance national security.
Summary
SB1665 is a bill aimed at protecting Hawaii's critical infrastructure from foreign ownership and control. The legislation identifies critical infrastructure as essential systems, such as freshwater treatment, electrical grids, and telecommunications networks, which are vital for public safety and the local economy. Recognizing the growing concern over foreign influence in these sectors, the bill proposes stringent regulations to limit foreign ownership to safeguard these assets.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support from various legislative members emphasizing the need to protect state infrastructure, it may also face opposition based on concerns over economic limitations and impacts on foreign investment. Detractors could argue that such regulations may discourage investment in Hawaii or limit the potential for beneficial partnerships in infrastructure development. The balance between safeguarding local interests and promoting economic growth is likely to be a critical point of contention during discussions around SB1665.
Affirming Hawaii's Path To Financial And Economic Security, Resiliency, And Self-determination By Urging Increased Caution Concerning Foreign Influence In Hawaii's Critical Infrastructure And Calling On Departments And Agencies To Accelerate The Elimination Of Hawaii's Dependence On Imports Serving Critical Infrastructure Including Fuels For Electricity Generation And Intra-state Transportation As Soon As Possible, But No Later Than 2045.
The powers of a board of county commissioners, a board of city commissioners, and a city council regarding development by a foreign country of concern or foreign organization of concern, prohibiting ownership of real property by a foreign country of concern or a foreign organization of concern; and to provide a penalty.