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Bill

Bill

SB 2176

RELATING TO RIGHT-OF-ENTRY PERMITS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 3 co-sponsors

SB 2176 modifies Hawaii's right-of-entry permit system governing land access for surveying, environmental, and resource purposes.

Referred to WLA/EDT, WAM.
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Bill Summary · SB 2176

Legislative bill overview

SB 2176 modifies Hawaii's right-of-entry permit system, which governs access to private land for various purposes including surveying, environmental assessment, and resource management. The bill is currently in early legislative stages, having just completed first reading and been referred to the Water, Land, and Agriculture (WLA/EDT) and Ways and Means (WAM) committees.

Why is this important

Right-of-entry permits directly affect the balance between private property rights and public or commercial interests in land access. Changes to this system can impact agricultural operations, environmental monitoring, utility companies, government agencies, and property owners' ability to control who enters their land.

Potential points of contention

  • Private property rights vs. public access: Unclear whether the bill expands or restricts entry permissions, affecting property owners' control over their land
  • Agricultural and environmental interests: Farmers and conservation groups may disagree on how easily researchers, utilities, or agencies can access land
  • Implementation costs: New permit requirements or procedures could create administrative burdens or expenses for applicants or the state

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

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