S.C.R. No. 125 Summary

• Requests the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to conduct a study of jurisdictional issues related to removing burial sites during cemetery decertification, in consultation with the Department of Health, Department of Land and Natural Resources, and Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.

• Identifies overlapping and unclear jurisdiction among three state departments: Health (disinterment permits), Commerce and Consumer Affairs (licensing and decertification), and Land and Natural Resources (historic preservation documentation).

• Notes that at least three cemeteries undergoing decertification have encountered challenges due to jurisdictional confusion between state agencies.

• Requires the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2013 Regular Session.

• Aims to clarify jurisdictional responsibilities to preserve the integrity of both Native Hawaiian and non-Native Hawaiian burial sites consistent with the State's cultural property conservation goals.