HI HB2338

Streamlines the state land use commission's process for county-initiated boundary amendments by changing from a "contested case" hearing format to a quasi-legislative process similar to county council rezoning decisions.

Limits counties to one boundary amendment application per island every five years, with proposed amendments must be consistent with adopted county general plans or community/regional development plans.

Requires the commission to conduct hearings within 90 days of filing and decide applications within 180 days based on whether amendments are reasonable, comply with land use law, and meet established criteria, with approval requiring six affirmative votes.

Changes the office of planning's five-year boundary review from mandatory to optional, while allowing the office to initiate state-level boundary amendments as appropriate.

Exempts state and county land use boundary amendments under section 205-18 from environmental assessment requirements, except for amendments reclassifying land from conservation districts.