H.B. 1565 Summary

• Establishes science and technology research subzones in urban, rural, agricultural, and conservation land use districts, with the Board of Land and Natural Resources responsible for designation and regulation.

• Designates nine specific locations as initial science and technology research subzones, including facilities at Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority, Maui Research & Technology Center, University of Hawaii locations, and Mauna Kea astronomy precinct.

• Creates a mediation process for disputes related to science and technology research permits, requiring the Board or county authority to appoint a mediator within five days of a request and complete mediation within 30 days.

• Permits science and technology research activities as allowable uses in all zones of the conservation district without requiring full commercial use public hearing procedures.

• Allows the Board of Land and Natural Resources to lease public lands to science and technology research organizations and institutions for noncommercial research purposes within designated subzones without public auction.