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Bill

GM 692

Submitting for consideration and confirmation to the Board of Land and Natural Resources, Gubernatorial Nominee, RILEY SMITH, for a term to expire 06-30-2030.

2026 Regular Session

Hawaii proposes confirming Riley Smith to the Board of Land and Natural Resources through 2030, pending committee review and confirmation.

Confirmed. Ayes, 14. Aye(s) with reservations: none. Noes, 10 (Senator(s) Awa, DeCorte, Elefante, Fevella, Fukunaga, Gabbard, Ihara, Kim, McKelvey, Rhoads). Excused, 1 (Senator(s) San Buenaventura).
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Bill Summary · GM 692

Legislative bill overview

Bill GM 692 proposes the confirmation of Riley Smith as a gubernatorial nominee to the Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR), with a term expiring June 30, 2030. The bill has been referred to the Water, Land, and Agriculture (WLA) committee for consideration and currently awaits hearing and confirmation votes.

Why is this important

The BLNR is a significant state agency managing Hawaii's public lands, water resources, and natural resource conservation—affecting land use policy, environmental protection, and Native Hawaiian land rights. Board member appointments shape decisions on development permits, conservation priorities, and resource allocation across the state for years.

Potential points of contention

  • Background and qualifications: No public information provided about Riley Smith's experience, expertise, or positions on land management, conservation, or Native Hawaiian issues
  • BLNR's controversial mandate: The board oversees ceded lands (historically tied to Native Hawaiian sovereignty disputes) and development decisions that often generate environmental and cultural concerns
  • Political considerations: Gubernatorial appointments can reflect broader political agendas regarding development versus conservation priorities

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

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