HI HB1823

Requires nonbinding mediation as a mandatory step before arbitration when the board of land and natural resources and private parties dispute fair market value or rental of public lands.

Mediation applies to disputes involving purchase, lease, repurchase, or reopening of lease rentals for public lands, with costs split equally between parties.

Preserves binding arbitration under chapter 658A as the final dispute resolution method if mediation fails to reach agreement.

Establishes that arbitration for lease rental disputes shall be conducted by a single arbitrator (attorney, real estate professional, or qualified person) mutually agreed upon, or appointed by circuit court if parties cannot agree within 15 days.

Requires complete appraisal reports including all comparables be provided to opposing parties prior to mediation or arbitration, and made available for public study.