Bill > SB1167

This bill requires the Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund to update its plan of operation to include filing and litigating subrogation claims against parties responsible for climate change-related damages. Specifically, the bill mandates that the fund's insurance rates account for proceeds recovered through these subrogation claims, and it requires the fund to actively pursue legal action against entities that have contributed to climate disasters or extreme weather events. The legislation is grounded in extensive findings about the fossil fuel industry's historical knowledge of climate change, including evidence that some companies were aware of potential environmental impacts as early as the 1950s but continued to spread misinformation. The bill argues that these responsible parties have intentionally deceived the public about climate change, leading to significant environmental and economic damages in Hawaii, such as increased wildfire risks, sea level rise, and insurance market instability. By requiring the Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund to pursue subrogation claims, the bill aims to hold these parties financially accountable for the harm caused by climate change and to recover funds spent on insurance claims related to climate-driven disasters. The bill emphasizes that these climate-related damages should not be considered unforeseeable "acts of God" and that the state has a compelling interest in protecting its residents and resources from the long-term impacts of climate change.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1167&year=2026