Bill > HR124

This resolution reaffirms Hawaii's constitutional obligation to protect natural resources by recognizing the critical importance of freshwater in maintaining healthy nearshore marine ecosystems. The resolution highlights the vital role of freshwater in supporting marine life, including native limu (algae and seaweed), endemic fish species like ?o?opu, and other marine organisms that rely on the interconnected freshwater and marine environments. It emphasizes how alterations to freshwater sources through groundwater extraction, streamflow diversion, and pollution can negatively impact marine habitats, leading to problems like coral bleaching and biodiversity loss. The resolution strongly urges the State and counties to prioritize protecting and restoring freshwater flows by developing comprehensive water resource management plans that balance human needs with environmental sustainability. Additionally, it requests governmental bodies to work with stakeholders to provide education and outreach about the importance of freshwater to nearshore marine ecosystems. The resolution is grounded in Hawaii's State Constitution, particularly Article XI, which mandates conservation of natural resources for present and future generations, and calls for transmitting the resolution to key government officials to promote awareness and action.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=124&year=2025