HI HR161

Board of Land and Natural Resources is requested to establish a Makua Valley task force to prepare for the transfer of management of the Makua Military Reservation from the U.S. Army to Hawaii upon expiration of General Lease No. S-3848 on August 16, 2029.

Task force is requested to examine and address legal, historical, environmental, and cultural impacts from decades-long military use of Makua Valley, including presence of 32 endangered plant species, endangered wildlife, and approximately 100 historic sites eligible for the National Register of Historic Places.

Task force composition includes the Board of Land and Natural Resources Chairperson, a House representative selected by the Speaker, representatives from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Aha Moku Advisory Committee, families evicted from Makua Valley, three non-profit organizations with Makua expertise, and representatives selected by Native Hawaiian organizations.

Task force is requested to enter discussions with the U.S. Army regarding expedient return of lands, removal of unexploded ordnance, and expansion of cultural access opportunities.

Task force is dissolved on February 16, 2030 (six months after lease expiration) and must submit progress reports to the Legislature no later than 20 days before each regular session convenes.