Governor Green signed 13 bills aimed at benefiting Native Hawaiian communities and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) beneficiaries, focusing on housing, education, and cultural practices.
“This legislation is a major step toward fulfilling our commitment to providing housing for our beneficiaries,” said Governor Green. “By extending this special fund, we can make significant progress in addressing the housing needs of our community.”
House Bill 2074 mandates the Department of Education (DOE) to develop a comprehensive strategic plan for Kaiapuni education during the 2023-2024 school year. The plan will monitor the academic success of approximately 1,400 students in the Kaiapuni program and appropriates about $3.5 million to fund new positions for Kaiapuni teachers and curriculum specialists.
“Kaiapuni education is vital for the preservation and promotion of Hawaiian language and culture,” stated Governor Green. “This strategic plan will ensure that our Kaiapuni students receive the support they need to succeed academically. I thank the DOE for their dedication to this important cause.”
Senate Bill 2937 permanently exempts the College of Hawaiian Languages at UH Hilo from English-medium standards, furthering the state’s commitment to Hawaiian language learning.
“This bill is a testament to our commitment to Hawaiian language revitalization,” said Governor Green. “By making this exemption permanent, we support UH Hilo’s College of Hawaiian Languages in its mission to promote and preserve the native language of Hawaiʻi.”
Senate Bill 2659 requires the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) to develop and update a Tourism Functional Plan that emphasizes sustainable development, cultural integrity, and economic diversification.
“Sustainable tourism is essential for the future of our state,” stated Governor Green. “This bill ensures that our visitor industry grows in a way that respects and preserves our cultural heritage while promoting economic diversification.”
The signing of these bills signifies a commitment to strengthening Hawaiian homelands, enhancing Native Hawaiian education, preserving cultural practices, and promoting sustainable development.
“Today, we make significant strides in supporting our Native Hawaiian community and preserving our cultural heritage,” concluded Governor Green. “I am grateful to all legislators, advocates, and community members who have worked tirelessly to make these bills possible. Together, we are building a brighter future for Hawaiʻi and its Native Hawaiian communities.”
The complete list of bills signed includes:
- RELATING TO REGULATION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES: SB3154 HD1 SD1 CD1
- RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN HOMES COMMISSION ACT: HB2218 HD1 SD2
- RELATING TO KALAUPAPA: SB2289 SD2 HD2 CD1
- RELATING TO BURIAL SITES: SB2591 SD2 HD1 CD1
- RELATING TO MAKAHIKI COMMEMORATION DAY: SB2657 SD1 HD2 CD1
- RELATING TO THE LAND TRUST ACT: SB3236 HD1 CD1
- RELATING TO ACCESS TO VITAL RECORDS FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS: SB3123 SD2 HD1 CD1
- RELATING TO BURIAL COUNCILS: HB1529 HD2 SD2
- RELATING TO FISHPONDS: HB2626 HD1 SD1