H.B. 1185 Summary

• Requires the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to distribute all remaining Hawaiian home lands to native Hawaiians within fifteen years instead of the current indefinite timeline.

• Removes financial ability as a consideration in awarding leases, allowing native Hawaiians to obtain leases regardless of capacity to secure loans or build dwellings.

• Authorizes the department to develop alternative housing arrangements including pu'uhonua (traditional Hawaiian sanctuaries) and communal living models on Hawaiian home lands.

• Changes departmental powers from discretionary ("may") to mandatory ("shall") regarding lease development and assistance to lessees and applicants.

• Requires management audit to address structural deficiencies within the department, with effectiveness contingent on U.S. Congressional consent.