Bill > HB99

This bill establishes a climate literacy certificate program for high school students in Hawaii, designed to prepare them for understanding and addressing the economic and social impacts of climate change. The program will require students to complete at least two approved courses with climate literacy standards and an experiential learning project. Upon satisfactory completion, students will receive a certificate, and the Department of Education will be responsible for establishing the program requirements, approving courses, and submitting an annual report to the board and legislature about the program's details and certificate issuance. The bill is part of Hawaii's broader climate strategy, which includes goals of generating 100% renewable electricity by 2045 and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% below 2005 levels by 2030. The program aims to cultivate the next generation of climate leaders by providing an advanced understanding of climate change through academic and hands-on learning. Funding for the program will be appropriated from general state revenues for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, and the program is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=99&year=2026