HI HB1297

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 10-3 to clarify the purpose and responsibilities of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.

Changes reference from singular "purpose" to plural "purposes" regarding the public land trust used for the betterment of native Hawaiians.

Maintains the Office's six core purposes: betterment of conditions of native Hawaiians and Hawaiians, serving as principal public agency for Hawaiian-related programs, assessing policies affecting these groups, applying for grants and donations, and serving as receptacle for reparations.

Public land trust is defined as proceeds and income from ceded lands under the 1898 joint resolution of annexation and the 1959 Admissions Act, excluding Hawaiian Homes Commission Act lands.

Takes effect upon approval.