Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR14

Introduced
1/28/26  

Caption

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The Moneys Appropriated To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Pursuant To Act 279, Session Laws Of Hawaii 2022.

Impact

The passage of SR14 could significantly impact state laws governing the oversight of appropriated funds, particularly concerning the DHHL. By initiating an audit, the resolution seeks to ensure that the financial resources are employed in alignment with the strategic goals set forth in the prior acts. This move would foster greater accountability and transparency in the operations of the DHHL, a department already under scrutiny due to its slow progress in reducing the substantial waitlist for housing among native Hawaiians.

Summary

Senate Resolution 14 (SR14) requests an audit of the moneys appropriated to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) under Act 279, Session Laws of Hawaii 2022, as amended by Act 125, Session Laws of Hawaii 2024. Act 279 allocated $600 million to assist with the elimination of the DHHL waitlist by facilitating land and housing development for native Hawaiians. The resolution highlights the need for accountability in how these funds are utilized and aims to ensure that the money appropriated effectively meets the needs of the intended beneficiaries.

Contention

Debates surrounding SR14 may encapsulate concerns regarding the DHHL's performance and its management of funds. Given the backdrop of increasing waitlist numbers, advocates for the audit argue that it is essential for verifying that the strategic plan mandated by Act 279 is being followed. However, there may be dissent regarding the allocation of resources for audits versus direct assistance to beneficiaries. This contention underscores the balancing act between legislative oversight and the immediate needs of the community.

Companion Bills

HI SCR16

Same As Requesting The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The Moneys Appropriated To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Pursuant To Act 279, Session Laws Of Hawaii 2022.

Previously Filed As

HI SR170

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The Moneys Appropriated To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Pursuant To Act 279, Session Laws Of Hawaii 2022.

HI SCR189

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The Moneys Appropriated To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Pursuant To Act 279, Session Laws Of Hawaii 2022.

HI HCR84

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The Moneys Appropriated To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Pursuant To Act 279, Session Laws Of Hawaii 2022.

HI HR78

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The Moneys Appropriated To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Pursuant To Act 279, Session Laws Of Hawaii 2022.

HI HR147

Establishing A Legislative Working Group For The Continued Oversight Of The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands' Execution Of Funds Appropriated By Act 279, Session Laws Of Hawaii 2022.

HI HB606

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Homelands.

HI HB1307

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

HI SB1553

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

HI HB1408

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

HI SB151

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands.

Similar Bills

HI HR213

Recognizing Hawaiian Council For 25 Years Of Dedicated Service, Impactful Leadership, And Steadfast Advocacy On Behalf Of The Native Hawaiian Community.

HI SB199

Relating To Hawaiian Culture.

HI SB199

Relating To Hawaiian Culture.

HI SCR52

Requesting The Department Of Education To Require One Year Of Hawaiian Language Instruction As A Graduation Requirement In Public Schools.

HI SR50

Requesting The Department Of Education To Require One Year Of Hawaiian Language Instruction As A Graduation Requirement In Public Schools.

HI SR75

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Establish And Provide Legislative Engagement Forums To Educate And Empower The Native Hawaiian Community Regarding The Legislative Process.

HI SCR92

Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Establish And Provide Legislative Engagement Forums To Educate And Empower The Native Hawaiian Community Regarding The Legislative Process.

HI HB1496

Relating To Education.