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SB 1517

RELATING TO PUBLIC LANDS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 1517 establishes a public lottery for recreation-residence leases on Hawaii's public lands, enhancing access while ensuring sustainable management and conservation.

Pass First Reading
#blnr #publiclands #publiclottery #recreation-residenceuseleases
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Bill Summary · SB 1517

Summary of SB 1517: Relating to Public Lands

Bill Number: SB 1517
Introduced On: January 22, 2025
Status: Passed First Reading
Primary Sponsor: Senator Kouchi
Related Bill: HB 1348 (companion bill)

Purpose and Intent

SB 1517 aims to address the management and utilization of public lands in Hawaii, specifically focusing on the administration of recreation-residence use leases and the establishment of a public lottery system for these leases. The bill seeks to enhance public access to recreational areas while ensuring sustainable use of state lands.

Key Provisions

  • Public Lottery System: The bill proposes the creation of a public lottery system to allocate recreation-residence use leases on public lands. This system is intended to provide a fair and transparent method for distributing access to these leases.

  • Management by BLNR: The bill designates the Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) as the governing body responsible for overseeing the implementation of the lottery system and managing the recreation-residence use leases.

  • Regulatory Framework: SB 1517 outlines the regulatory framework for the operation of the lottery, including eligibility criteria for applicants and the process for lease allocation.

  • Public Access Enhancement: The bill emphasizes the importance of public access to recreational areas, aiming to balance land use with environmental conservation.

Impact

  • Affected Parties: The bill will primarily affect individuals and families seeking access to recreation-residence use leases on public lands. It will also impact the BLNR, which will take on additional responsibilities in managing the lottery and leases.

  • Public Engagement: The introduction of a lottery system is expected to increase public engagement and interest in state lands, potentially leading to greater recreational use and tourism.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 22, 2025: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.
  • January 27, 2025: Referred to the committees on Water and Land (WTL) and Judiciary (JDC).
  • February 5, 2025: Public hearing scheduled by WTL.
  • February 10, 2025: WTL recommends passage without amendments.
  • February 14, 2025: Passed Second Reading and referred to JDC.
  • February 26, 2025: JDC recommends passage with amendments.
  • March 4, 2025: Passed Third Reading in amended form and transmitted to the House.
  • March 6, 2025: Referred to WAL and JHA committees.

Conclusion

SB 1517 represents a significant step towards modernizing the management of public lands in Hawaii by introducing a public lottery system for recreation-residence use leases. This bill aims to enhance public access while ensuring responsible stewardship of state resources. As it progresses through the legislative process, further discussions and amendments may shape its final form and implementation.

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

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