HI HB1537

Appropriates funds to the University of Hawaii for full-time equivalent (FTE) positions within the Office of Mauna Kea Management for fiscal years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021, with the specific dollar amount left blank in the bill text.

Requires eight positions to be funded: natural resources specialist, geographic information systems database manager, resources technician, permitting and compliance officer, community outreach program manager, communication program manager, communication specialist, and fiscal specialist.

Addresses increased visitor traffic to Mauna Kea resulting from Saddle Road improvements and social media, which has strained existing resources and required rangers to take on safety and traffic roles rather than focusing solely on resource protection.

Finds that the Office of Mauna Kea Management must expand staffing to implement the Board of Land and Natural Resources' comprehensive management plan, including resource monitoring, research, permit compliance, and community outreach activities.

Takes effect on January 1, 2050.