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Bill

Bill

HB 1089

RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN HOMES COMMISSION ACT.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nadine Nakamura

HB 1089 proposes modifications to Hawaii's Hawaiian Homes Commission Act framework governing Native Hawaiian homesteading and land trust programs, carrying implications for beneficiary housing access and land management authority.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 1089

Legislative bill overview

HB 1089 relates to amendments or modifications of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act (HHCA), a foundational 1920 federal law that established homesteading programs for Native Hawaiians. The bill was introduced in the 2025 session but carried over to 2026 without passage, indicating either substantial deliberation needs or disagreement among legislators about its specific provisions.

Why is this important

The HHCA governs approximately 200,000 acres of trust lands and affects tens of thousands of Native Hawaiian beneficiaries' housing, economic opportunities, and land rights. Any modifications to this act have direct implications for Native Hawaiian families' access to affordable homesteads, lease terms, and the Commission's operational authority.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of changes unclear: The bill's specific amendments to the HHCA are not detailed in available records, making it difficult to assess whether proposed changes expand or restrict beneficiary access and rights
  • Federal-state jurisdiction complexity: The HHCA is federal legislation, so any state-level modifications may require federal approval or coordination, creating implementation questions
  • Stakeholder impact: Changes could affect current HHCA lessees, applicants on waiting lists, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands' operations, and broader Native Hawaiian community interests differently

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

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