Bill > SB1598

This bill requires the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission (commission) to develop comprehensive sea level rise adaptation pathways plans to help communities proactively address coastal climate risks. The bill mandates that the commission create a framework for developing regional-scale plans that identify critically vulnerable areas and outline strategies for modifying or relocating development and infrastructure away from high-risk coastal zones. Specifically, the commission must develop at least one regional adaptation plan for each county by December 31, 2030, with a process for assessment finalized by December 31, 2026. The plans will involve culturally-informed community engagement, consider factors like shoreline type, erosion rates, and flooding projections, and may result in relocating developments when certain environmental triggers are reached. The bill defines key terms like "adaptation measure" (individual actions to respond to coastal hazards) and "adaptation trigger" (predetermined conditions signaling when action is needed). To support this work, the bill appropriates $2 million for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, to be administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources. The overall goal is to proactively protect vulnerable communities, conserve natural resources, and reduce potential taxpayer costs associated with climate change impacts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1598&year=2026