Bill > SB1340

This bill provides comprehensive updates to Hawaii's climate change legislation by clarifying and expanding the state's zero emissions clean economy target. The bill introduces several new definitions related to greenhouse gas emissions, including terms like "anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions," "carbon sink," and "greenhouse gas inventory," to provide more precise language for climate mitigation efforts. It establishes a statewide goal to sequester more atmospheric carbon and greenhouse gases than emitted by 2045, with an interim target of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% below 2005 levels by 2030. The bill goes further by introducing sector-specific emissions reduction targets, particularly for stationary combustion and ground transportation, with progressive reduction goals from 2030 to 2045. The legislation requires state agencies to consider the impact of their plans and decisions on achieving these emissions targets, mandates annual reporting by commission members on actions taken to meet clean economy goals, and aims to prevent "emissions leakage" by ensuring that efforts to reduce emissions in one sector do not inadvertently increase emissions in another. These provisions are part of Hawaii's commitment to addressing the climate crisis and leading by example in sustainable, low-carbon economic transformation.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1340&year=2025