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House committee advances regional shoreline mitigation bill after debate over exemptions and definitions
Summary
The Waterland Committee voted March 19 to advance SB2401 SD1 with an HD1 that incorporates technical and DLNR-recommended amendments. Testimony spanned Attorney General cautions about terminology, OHA demands to preserve cultural review, and public warnings that site-specific exemptions could set a precedent for bypassing environmental protections.
Chair Mark Hasch said the committee would move quickly to complete business before the noon session and opened hearings on SB2401 SD1, a proposal to create regional shoreline mitigation (adaptation) districts.
Attorney General Lisonbee Kato told the committee the bill uses the terms 'mitigation' and 'adaptation' inconsistently, which could create title/subject concerns; the AG provided written comments and offered to answer questions. Michael Kane of the Department of Land and Natural Resources said DLNR was neutral on terminology and more focused on substantive protections, and emphasized that the amended language prioritizes public‑trust resources while preserving project-level environmental review and permitting.
Lealoha Mapuanai of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs said OHA appreciates steps…
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