HI HB2240

Transfers functions and responsibilities for preservation and protection of native Hawaiian burial sites from the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) historic preservation division to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.

Requires that discovery of burial sites be reported to both DLNR and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, with burial sites of native Hawaiian origin evaluated and managed by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.

Establishes that island burial councils operate under the Office of Hawaiian Affairs rather than DLNR, with the Office developing criteria for preservation or relocation of native Hawaiian burial sites.

Requires permits and approvals from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs for activities affecting native Hawaiian burial sites, including excavation, removal of remains, and cemetery redesignation.

Effective date: July 1, 2010; transfers all DLNR personnel, appropriations, records, equipment, and contracts related to native Hawaiian burial site functions to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.