President Joseph R. Biden has signed the Lahaina National Heritage Area Study Act into law. This legislation, introduced by U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono and U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda, mandates the National Park Service to evaluate the potential designation of Lahaina as a National Heritage Area. The study will be conducted in collaboration with Maui County and other state and local partners.
Senator Hirono emphasized the significance of Lahaina's resources: “The historic, natural, and cultural resources found in Lahaina tell a nationally significant story and the devastating August 2023 wildfires shed light on how special this town is to our communities and to the country.” She expressed pride in President Biden's signing of the act, noting its importance for ensuring Lahaina's recognition for future generations.
Representative Ed Case also cosponsored this bill. Currently, Hawaii does not have any designated National Heritage Areas among the 62 managed by the National Park Service nationwide. Previously, Senator Hirono introduced legislation concerning Kaena Point on Oahu for similar consideration.