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Bill > SB559


HI SB559

Proposing An Amendment To Article I Of The Hawaii State Constitution To Recognize And Protect The Inherent And Inalienable Right Of All People To Clean Water And Air, A Healthful Environment And Climate, Healthy Native Ecosystems, And Beaches.


summary

Introduced
01/17/2025
In Committee
02/05/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Proposes a constitutional amendment to ensure that the inherent and inalienable right of the people, including future generations, to clean water and air, a healthful environment and climate, healthy native ecosystems, and beaches, shall be protected and shall not be infringed. (SD1)

AI Summary

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to Hawaii's state constitution that would establish an explicit environmental rights provision, recognizing and protecting the inherent and inalienable rights of people, including current and future generations, to clean water and air, a healthful environment and climate, healthy native ecosystems, and beaches. Drawing inspiration from the Native Hawaiian concept of Aloha Aina (love of the land), the amendment aims to complement existing constitutional protections and reinforce safeguards for human health, natural and cultural values, and the environment. If approved by voters, this amendment would add a new section to Article I of the Hawaii State Constitution that explicitly states these environmental rights cannot be infringed upon. The proposed ballot question will directly ask voters whether they support adding this constitutional protection, reflecting a commitment to environmental preservation and the belief that a clean, healthy environment is a fundamental right for present and future generations of Hawaii's residents.

Committee Categories

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC/WAM. (on 02/05/2025)

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