Bill > SCR173

This Concurrent Resolution urges the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Hawaii's state agency responsible for managing public lands and natural resources, to install and operate dispensers that provide non-chemical, mineral-based sunscreen at all state beaches. This initiative is a response to concerns that chemical sunscreens, specifically those containing ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, are harmful to Hawaii's coral reefs and marine ecosystems, as evidenced by a previous state law (Act 104) that banned the sale of such sunscreens. The resolution acknowledges that mineral-based sunscreens offer protection from skin cancer without harming the environment and highlights a successful pilot program at one state beach. To fund these dispensers, the DLNR is encouraged to use money collected from commercial marine license fees and fines related to taking aquatic life for aquariums. Finally, the DLNR is required to report its progress and any legislative proposals to the state Legislature by early 2023.