Bill > SB1559

This bill seeks to appropriate funds to the University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program to support dune restoration efforts at Hanakaoo Beach Park on Maui over fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027. The legislation recognizes the importance of dune restoration as a nature-based solution that provides multiple benefits, including infrastructure protection from high wave events, creating a natural buffer against sea level rise, and supporting cultural and recreational activities like Hawaiian outrigger canoeing. The bill highlights that the dune restoration project will involve technical guidance to create productive dune habitats and restore ecosystem services. While the specific amount of funding is not specified in the bill text (indicated by a blank dollar amount), the funds will be drawn from the state's general revenues and will be expended by the University of Hawaii in partnership with Maui County. The bill is set to take effect on July 31, 2050, which is unusually far in the future for a legislative action.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1559&year=2026