S.C.R. NO. 89 - Native Hawaiian Cultural Monitoring

• Recognizes the importance of Native Hawaiian cultural monitoring for protecting and preserving Native Hawaiian historic and cultural resources, including iwi kupuna (ancestral remains), in construction and excavation projects.

• Urges federal, state, and county agencies to develop and implement Native Hawaiian cultural monitoring programs in collaboration with developers, contractors, owners, and Native Hawaiian organizations for all projects in historically sensitive areas.

• Directs creation of a legislative committee composed of state Senate and House members to draft amendments to Chapter 6E, Hawaii Revised Statutes, establishing criteria and guidelines for Native Hawaiian cultural monitoring by the 2014 regular session.

• Notes that current Hawaii law does not require Native Hawaiian cultural monitoring for archaeological surveys, excavation, demolition, or construction projects in culturally significant areas, except through voluntary agreements or lawsuit settlements.

• Transmits certified copies to the U.S. Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, Governor, Board of Land and Natural Resources, Office of Hawaiian Affairs, and legislative leadership.