HI HR198

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 as allodial titles to Hawaiian commoners in 1850 by the Kingdom of Hawaii, with traditional customary rights protected under Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 174C-101.

Affirms that kuleana landowners' appurtenant water rights are protected and "shall not be diminished or extinguished by a failure to apply for or to receive a permit" under Hawaii's water code.

Asserts that the customary rights and cultural traditions of kuleana landowners should not be used as revenue sources for the state or counties.

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