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Bill

Bill

SR 64

AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF A PERPETUAL, NON-EXCLUSIVE EASEMENT COVERING A PORTION OF STATE SUBMERGED LANDS AT WAIALAE, HONOLULU, OAHU, FOR THE EXISTING DRAINAGE OUTLETS, AND FOR THE USE, REPAIR, AND MAINTENANCE OF THE EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS CONSTRUCTED THEREON.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang

Hawaii grants perpetual easement for existing drainage outlets on state submerged lands in Waialae, Honolulu, enabling ongoing maintenance and repairs of the infrastructure.

Referred to WTL, WAM.
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Bill Summary · SR 64

Legislative bill overview

SR 64 authorizes Hawaii to grant a perpetual easement over state submerged lands at Waialae in Honolulu for existing drainage outlets. The easement would allow for continued use, repair, and maintenance of drainage infrastructure already constructed on those state-owned underwater lands.

Why is this important

Drainage systems are critical public infrastructure for flood control and wastewater management in urban areas. This bill formalizes legal rights to maintain existing drainage facilities on state land, preventing potential disputes over access and ensuring ongoing functionality of infrastructure that protects nearby communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Perpetual duration: A perpetual easement grants rights indefinitely without periodic review, raising questions about whether future generations should have input on long-term use of public submerged lands
  • Environmental impact: Drainage outlets in marine environments affect water quality and ecosystems; the bill contains no apparent environmental impact assessment or mitigation requirements
  • Public vs. private benefit: Unclear whether this easement serves public drainage needs or primarily benefits private property owners, and what entity maintains and funds the improvements

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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