HI HR49

Requests the Board of Land and Natural Resources to establish a task force to prepare for state management of Makua Military Reservation upon expiration of General Lease No. S-3848 on August 16, 2029.

Task force shall examine legal, historical, environmental, and cultural impacts from decades of U.S. military use of Makua Valley, including effects on 32 endangered plant species, endangered wildlife, and approximately 100 historic sites eligible for National Register listing.

Task force composition includes the Board of Land and Natural Resources Chairperson, a House-selected legislator, Office of Hawaiian Affairs representative, Aha Moku Advisory Committee member, representatives of evicted families, three non-profit organizations, and Native Hawaiian organization representatives.

Task force directed to negotiate with the U.S. Army regarding expedited land return, removal of unexploded ordnance, and expanded cultural access opportunities prior to lease expiration.

Task force shall submit status updates and recommendations to the Legislature prior to each regular session and dissolve on February 16, 2030, six months after lease expiration.