HI HCR227

Requests the State of Hawaii and all counties to exempt kuleana landowners from paying state, county, or municipal taxes, fees, or charges for water usage connected to their appurtenant water rights.

Recognizes that kuleana lands were granted to Hawaiian commoners in 1850 with allodial titles and protected traditional and customary rights including taro cultivation and gathering of native plants.

Notes that Hawaii Revised Statutes section 174C-101 protects kuleana landowners' appurtenant water rights and ensures they cannot be diminished by failure to obtain a water permit.

States that customary cultural rights of kuleana landowners should not be treated as revenue sources for government entities.

Directs certified copies of the resolution be sent to the Governor, legislative leaders, Board of Land and Natural Resources Chairperson, and county mayors and council chairs.