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Commission approves pilina‑based priority wait list rule amendments, expands scope beyond 'kuleana' and shortens residency requirement
Summary
After beneficiary consultation and public comment, the commission approved administrative rule amendments to establish pilina (place‑based) priority wait lists and clarified leave‑of‑absence procedures; commissioners broadened the rule beyond Kuleana tracts and set an 18‑year residency qualifier.
The Hawaiian Homes Commission on Sept. 15 approved amendments to administrative rules establishing a pilina (place‑based) priority wait list and clarified rules related to lessee leave of absence. The rules aim to prioritize applicants with demonstrable, place‑based ties to specific homesteading areas when DHHL awards lots in rural or Kuleana homestead settlements.
DHHL staff presented results of an extensive beneficiary consultation process, including 17 in‑person and five virtual meetings held earlier in 2025. Staff reported strong conceptual support for a priority that recognizes lineal descent or long‑term residency in a place, but said beneficiaries asked for clearer definitions and limits. In response, staff removed a single statewide definition of “wahi” (place) and instead tied the geographic bounds of a pilina priority to each settlement plan, which is developed and approved with community input.
Key rule elements approved: -…
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