Bill > SB1019

This bill expands the purpose of Hawaii's Ocean Stewardship Special Fund to include beach restoration projects and environmental cleanup efforts. Currently, the fund is used for marine resource conservation, restoration, research, enforcement, and educational activities. The bill adds a new authorized use that allows the fund to support planning, development, designing, and implementation of beach restoration projects, including providing grants to nonprofit organizations for beach and nearshore environmental cleanup. The legislature recognizes that Hawaii's marine ecosystems are ecologically, economically, and culturally valuable, and are increasingly threatened by marine ecotourism and climate change. By broadening the fund's scope, the bill aims to provide additional resources for protecting and restoring coastal environments. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving state agencies and organizations time to prepare for the expanded funding opportunities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1019&year=2026