HI SB544

Directs the legislative reference bureau to study how other select states manage end-of-term commercial leases of public lands, particularly those terminating within ten years.

Requires the study to examine how states balance competitive bidding for state lands with the interests of existing lessees who cannot recoup capital improvements due to limited remaining lease terms.

Mandates inclusion of current best practices in commercial leasing of public lands in Hawaii and other jurisdictions, with authority to consult the department of land and natural resources and other entities.

Allows the legislative reference bureau to contract for outside services without being subject to Hawaii Revised Statutes chapter 103D if resources or expertise are insufficient.

Appropriates $100,000 from general revenues for fiscal year 2015-2016 and requires a report with findings and recommendations to the legislature by twenty days before the 2016 regular session convenes.