HONOLULU (AP) - Hawaii’s governor signed into law a new set of administrative rules for management of land on the state’s highest mountain.
Democratic Gov. David Ige approved the new regulations Monday for the the University of Hawaii’s oversight of Mauna Kea.
The rules meant to protect the mountain’s natural resources are expected to go into effect Jan. 23.
“With the opening of Maunakea Access Road and a return to normal activity on the mountain, I believe it is the right time to approve the rules,” Ige said in a statement Monday.
The rules prohibit littering, speeding, noise disturbances, fires, drugs, alcohol, drones, and camping.
They are also intended to regulate commercial activities, tours and motorized traffic, including off-road driving.
The university’s Board of Regents adopted the rules in November following a meeting that included testimony from 99 people.
A majority of those testifying criticized the proposal for being too restrictive of Native Hawaiians and cultural practitioners. Some said the effort was aimed at protesters who opposed construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope.
Demonstrators blocked access to the summit of Mauna Kea to prevent construction of the giant telescope from July through December. Demonstrators said the project could damage land considered sacred by some Native Hawaiians.
In a move intended to be less restrictive for Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners, the regents removed a proposed requirement that groups of 10 or more register 15 days in advance of going up the mountain.
“I have personally observed that there was too much traffic on Maunakea and these rules will give the university the tools needed to better manage public and commercial access,” Ige said.
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