Bill > SB840

This bill aims to protect Hawaii's coral reef ecosystems by expanding the use of mineral-based sunscreen dispensers at all state beaches. Recognizing that chemical-based sunscreens containing ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, and octocrylene can harm coral reefs by impairing plant growth, deforming marine animals, and contributing to coral bleaching, the bill authorizes the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to contract with private entities such as hotels, community organizations, and environmental nonprofits to install, maintain, and manage these sunscreen dispensers. The bill appropriates $100,000 for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support the installation and operation of these dispensers, which will provide reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreen to residents and visitors. This legislation builds upon a previous law passed in 2018 that banned the sale of sunscreens containing certain harmful chemicals and seeks to further protect Hawaii's fragile marine ecosystems by making reef-safe sunscreen more accessible at state beaches. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=840&year=2026