Clark Atlanta University Day; recognize February 18, 2025

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tonya Anderson and 23 co-sponsors

SR 170 requests an audit of funds for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to ensure transparency and accountability, impacting support for the Hawaiian community.

Senate Read and Adopted

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SR 170
Title: 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
Status: Referred to HWN, WAM
Introduced: March 07, 2025
Classification: Resolution
Subject: Act 125, Act 279, audit, Auditor, Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, Session Laws of 2022, Session Laws of Hawaii 2024

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SR 170 is to request a comprehensive audit of the funds appropriated to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) under Act 279, which was enacted as part of the Session Laws of Hawaii in 2022. The resolution aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the management and utilization of these funds, which are critical for supporting the Hawaiian community and fulfilling the objectives of the DHHL.

Key Provisions

Audit Request: The resolution formally requests the State Auditor to conduct a thorough audit of the financial transactions and appropriations made to the DHHL as per Act 279.

Focus Areas: The audit will likely focus on how the appropriated funds have been allocated, spent, and whether they have effectively met the intended goals of supporting Hawaiian homesteaders and related initiatives.

Reporting: The outcome of the audit is expected to provide insights into the financial management practices of the DHHL and may lead to recommendations for improvements or changes in funding strategies.

Affected Parties

Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL): As the primary agency involved, the DHHL will be the subject of the audit, which may impact its operations and funding processes.

Hawaiian Community: The audit's findings could influence the services and support provided to Hawaiian homesteaders, as well as the overall effectiveness of programs funded by the appropriated moneys.

State Government: The resolution may prompt legislative discussions regarding future appropriations and oversight mechanisms for the DHHL.

Procedural Aspects

Legislative Actions:

The resolution was offered on March 7, 2025, and subsequently referred to the Hawaiian Affairs (HWN) and Ways and Means (WAM) committees on March 12, 2025.

Related Bills: SR 170 has companion measures, including HR 78 and SCR 189, which may address similar issues or provide additional context for the audit request.

Conclusion

SR 170 seeks to enhance accountability within the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands by initiating an audit of funds appropriated under Act 279. This resolution reflects a commitment to ensuring that financial resources are managed effectively to benefit the Hawaiian community. The outcome of the audit could lead to significant insights and potential reforms in the management of these funds.

Bill