The U.S. Senate has unanimously approved the Lahaina National Heritage Area Study Act, a bill introduced by Senator Mazie K. Hirono and Representative Jill Tokuda. This legislation mandates the National Park Service to work with Maui County and other partners to assess whether Lahaina should be designated as a National Heritage Area. The House passed the bill on December 4, 2024, and it now awaits President Biden's signature.
Senator Hirono remarked on the significance of Lahaina, especially after the devastating wildfires in August 2023 that resulted in over 100 deaths and extensive damage. "The historic, natural, and cultural resources found in Lahaina tell a nationally significant story," she stated. She emphasized that this bill would help preserve Lahaina's story for future generations.
Representative Jill Tokuda highlighted the importance of grounding Lahaina's rebirth in its historical roots as once being the capital of the Kingdom of Hawai'i. She expressed gratitude for bipartisan support and praised Senator Hirono’s efforts to pass the bill before Congress adjourns.
The legislation is also supported by Representative Ed Case from Hawaii. Currently, there are no National Heritage Areas in Hawaii among the 62 overseen by the National Park Service across the country.
In 2022, another initiative led by Senator Hirono aimed at designating Kaena Point on Oahu as a National Heritage Area was passed by the House.