WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

GM 1172

Informing the Legislature that on June 3, 2026, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB2367 SD2 HD2 CD1 (ACT 072).

2026 Regular Session

Allows private leasing of parts of the Ala Wai small boat harbor to improve public access and facilities, while protecting public employees and ending in 2046.

Received.
#act072
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · GM 1172

Summary of SB2367 CD1 (Act 072) – Hawaii, 2026

Main purpose and intent

  • The bill aims to reorganize and modernize management of state boating facilities, with a focus on Ala Wai small boat harbor, by enabling private-sector participation in certain management aspects while preserving public access and preserving public employees’ jobs.
  • It seeks to address chronic underfunding, under staffing, and deferred maintenance within the Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DBOR) of the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), shifting some management responsibilities to private partners under well-defined conditions.
  • The bill envisions creating a more inviting public space and gateway to Waikiki, in line with the 2022 UH Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor Vision Report, and improving multimodal access, public parking, and shoreline public space.

Key provisions and changes

  1. Ala Wai small boat harbor lease authority

    • DLNR’s Board of Land and Natural Resources may lease the remaining portion of the Ala Wai small boat harbor (including fast lands and submerged lands) for private development, management, and operation. Leases can be by public auction, RFP, or direct negotiation.
    • Any lease of this portion must protect public employees at Ala Wai harbor.
    • Leases are limited to expire no later than June 30, 2046.
    • The state boating facility lease is exempt from certain notice and legislative authorization requirements (specific sections cited).

  2. Reporting and oversight

    • No later than 20 days before each regular legislative session, the DLNR must submit a report to the Legislature with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation, including advice on whether the lease should be continued, modified, or terminated.

  3. Scope of “state boating facility”

    • The definition is clarified to include small boat harbors, launching ramps, offshore moorings, piers, wharfs, and related areas under DLNR jurisdiction.

  4. Repeal and amendments to existing statutes

    • Section 200-2.6 is repealed and replaced with new provisions governing private leasing of fast lands and submerged lands.
    • Existing language describing Ala Wai harbors’ fast lands and submerged lands is removed and replaced to align with new leasing framework.

  5. Projected improvements and public access

    • DLNR shall develop and implement a project to improve portions of Ala Wai harbor that provide public space and shoreline access (including Parcel A, areas along Holomoana Street, Parcel D, and the Ala Moana Bowls parking lot).
    • The project must ensure meaningful public parking and cohesive multimodal access via a promenade linking Ala Moana Beach Park to Waikiki, aligning with the 2022 UH Vision Report.

  6. Civil service protections for DBOR employees

    • Employees whose positions are replaced under this act shall retain civil service status and be reassigned within DBOR without loss of salary, seniority, vacation/sick leave, and other rights, subject to applicable personnel and collective bargaining laws.

Who would be affected

  • The DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DBOR) and its staff would undergo organizational changes, with potential reassignment of civil service employees.
  • Public users of Ala Wai small boat harbor and adjacent shoreline spaces would experience changes in management, access, parking, and multimodal connectivity.
  • Private developers/operators could become involved through leases of portions of the Ala Wai harbor for management and operation, subject to competitive processes and lease terms.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The act authorizes lease arrangements to expire by June 30, 2046, and sets reporting requirements prior to each regular legislative session.
  • The bill specifies transition and protections for public employees, and takes effect upon approval, with a 2046 sunset for the current statutory framework governing Ala Wai leases.

Note: This summary reflects the bill as enacted in Act 072 (June 3, 2026).

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

Sign in to ask a question.