Bill > SB1258

This bill establishes a Green Bonds Working Group within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to explore and develop recommendations for creating a green bonds financing program in Hawaii. The working group will be composed of key state officials, including directors from various departments, a state senator, a state representative, and additional invited members from environmental nonprofit organizations. The group's primary responsibilities include developing recommendations for financing climate change mitigation and adaptation projects, evaluating investment opportunities, determining project eligibility criteria, collaborating with stakeholders, analyzing international green bond principles, and estimating the cost of establishing such a program. Recognizing Hawaii's commitment to addressing climate change (being the first state to declare a climate emergency), the working group will examine how green bonds can support sustainable projects in areas like renewable energy, clean transportation, conservation, and infrastructure. The members will serve without compensation but will be reimbursed for expenses, and they are required to submit a comprehensive report to the legislature by twenty days before the 2026 regular session. The working group will officially dissolve on June 30, 2026, after completing its assigned tasks.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1258&year=2026