Bill > SB1458

This bill establishes an Environmental Stewardship Fee Program within the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to collect a $50 annual fee from visitors aged 15 and older who wish to visit state-owned beaches, parks, forests, trails, and coastlines. The program aims to protect and restore Hawaii's natural and cultural resources by generating dedicated funding to mitigate the environmental impacts of increased visitor use. The bill creates an Environmental Stewardship Commission to recommend fee revenue disbursements, establishes an Environmental Stewardship Fee Special Fund to collect license fees and fines, and allows for grants to nonprofit organizations and local governments for projects that restore, enhance, and protect natural resources. Visitors will be required to purchase a license through various convenient methods, including mobile applications and websites, with the license valid for one year. The program includes provisions for adjusting the fee every five years, implementing civil penalties for non-compliance (starting July 1, 2030), and requiring annual legislative reports on the fund's environmental restoration efforts. The bill also appropriates $3 million for establishing the commission and strategic plan, and funds three new positions to support the program's implementation.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1458&year=2026