Bill > HB1076

This bill establishes the Climate Mitigation and Resiliency Special Fund to address Hawaii's climate emergency by creating a dedicated funding mechanism for climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts. The new special fund, which will be administered by the Department of Defense, will receive money from multiple sources, including legislative appropriations, governmental and private grants, donations, and critically, all interest earned from the Emergency and Budget Reserve Fund (a state financial safety net). The fund can be used to finance projects that help Hawaii reduce, adapt to, or increase resilience against climate change impacts, including covering consultant, personnel, and administrative costs associated with these efforts. The legislation acknowledges the significant threat climate change poses to Hawaii's economy, environment, security, and way of life, and aims to take comprehensive action by dedicating financial resources to address these challenges. The bill appropriates funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, with a unique provision that allows unencumbered funds to remain available until June 30, 2028, after which any remaining balance will lapse back into the originating fund.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1076&year=2026