HI SB2702

Establishes a right of first refusal for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) to acquire properties sold at county real property tax auctions for delinquent taxes.

Counties must provide written notice to DHHL at least 60 days before scheduled auctions, including tax map key number, location, acreage, minimum upset price, and known encumbrances or environmental conditions.

DHHL may acquire property by matching the highest bid at public auction or acquiring directly from the county if no bids are received, with a 30-day deadline to exercise the right after auction.

All acquisitions require approval by the Hawaiian Homes Commission, compliance with environmental review laws, and a determination that the acquisition serves native Hawaiian beneficiaries' interests.

The legislation does not require DHHL to acquire any property and does not impair county authority to conduct tax sales or enter into intergovernmental agreements.