This Senate Resolution expresses support for expanding tree canopy programs and installing shade trees in urban areas to reduce urban heat island effects across Hawaii. It requests state and county agencies to collaborate on assessing heat exposure, canopy coverage disparities, and opportunities for integrating shade trees into development and climate resilience planning. The resolution emphasizes prioritizing vulnerable communities, including children, older adults, and low-income neighborhoods, while also considering best practices for tree selection and maintenance. It directs copies to the Governor, relevant state officials, and county mayors to encourage coordinated action on urban forestry initiatives.
This bill encourages Hawaii County to work with the Puako community, the Department of Health, and other partners to finish the Puako Sewage Project, which aims to replace aging cesspools with modern wastewater systems. The project combines advanced wastewater collection technology with fiber optic internet infrastructure to address both environmental pollution and the digital divide in rural areas. By using a public-private partnership model, the initiative seeks to create a replicable solution that can help other communities across Hawaii tackle similar sewage challenges while restoring local coral reefs.
This bill requests the Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting to create a countywide housing pattern book containing pre-approved residential designs that meet safety and building codes. The pattern book would include various housing types such as accessory dwelling units and low- to mid-rise buildings, featuring culturally appropriate and climate-responsive design elements. By using these pre-reviewed designs, developers could access streamlined permitting processes to reduce costs and construction delays. The resolution also calls for a design competition to source innovative plans and requires collaboration with architects, builders, and community stakeholders. Once completed, the pattern book would be made publicly available to help accelerate the production of safe and affordable housing across Oahu.
Establishes a Conservation Agriculture and Soil Health Incentive Program within the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission. Requires an annual report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
Establishes a PFAS Working Group within the Department of Health to investigate the existence and environmental dangers of per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Requires reports to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources' Division of Aquatic Resources to begin the Holomua Marine Initiative process no later than 7/1/2027 to address coral reef restoration on Oahu. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
This bill recognizes 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists in Hawaii, aligning with a United Nations designation. It directly affects ranchers, land managers, and agricultural organizations across the state by formally acknowledging the economic, social, and ecological importance of rangelands. The resolution encourages state agencies and the University of Hawaii to promote education and research on rangeland management while recommending policies that conserve rangelands and protect ranchers' livelihoods. Copies of the resolution are to be sent to state and local officials including the Governor, the Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity, the University of Hawaii, and county mayors.
This bill requests the Hawaii State Energy Office to form a working group to study how large data centers might affect the state's electric grid, utility rates, natural resources, and climate goals. The study will focus on facilities requiring at least five megawatts of electricity and will include representatives from government agencies, utilities, consumer advocates, and environmental groups. The working group will examine policy options to ensure data center developers pay for necessary grid upgrades and that Hawaii's clean energy objectives are not compromised.
Establishes base selection criteria for designating exceptional trees. Establishes the significant tree designation, selection criteria, and related processes. Establishes the State Arborist Advisory Committee within the Department of Land and Natural Resources for administrative purposes. Requires County Arborist Advisory Committees to have at least five members, adopt new exceptional tree selection criteria, and designate significant trees. Directs the Department of Land and Natural Resources and the University of Hawaii to cooperate with State and County Arborist Advisory Committees to carry out the Exceptional Trees Program. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
This House Concurrent Resolution urges the Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity to investigate and develop projects that combine renewable energy generation with existing agricultural reservoirs and irrigation systems. The bill proposes placing floating solar panels and small water turbines in water infrastructure to produce clean electricity without disrupting water delivery or requiring major construction. It encourages collaboration with farmers, local communities, and energy developers to identify suitable sites and conduct feasibility studies for pilot programs. The resolution aims to support Hawaii's clean energy goals while providing benefits like reduced water evaporation, improved water quality, and local economic opportunities.
