HI HB2223

Authorizes the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) to conduct its own historic preservation reviews for projects on lands under its jurisdiction, rather than requiring consultation with the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

DHHL must either designate reviews to a qualified Hawaiian home lands historic preservation specialist with written delegation from the state historic preservation officer, or hire a qualified fee-for-service consultant.

Requires DHHL to provide copies of all review documents to the state department for incorporation into the historic preservation digital document management system and to consult with island burial councils on projects impacting burial sites.

Appropriates $400,000 for fiscal year 2026-2027 to establish four full-time positions: one historic preservation specialist, one archaeologist, one architectural historian, and one cultural historian.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources retains review authority for projects affecting properties listed or nominated for the Hawaii or national register of historic places.