Bill > SCR198

This concurrent resolution encourages Hawaii insurers and the Hawaii Property Insurance Association (HPIA) to pursue legal action against fossil fuel companies that knowingly misled the public about their products' role in climate change. The resolution highlights the increasing climate-related disasters in Hawaii, such as hurricanes, droughts, and the 2023 Maui wildfires, which have destabilized the state's insurance industry and led to rising premiums. Drawing parallels to previous legal actions against industries like tobacco and opioid manufacturers, the resolution suggests that insurers should use subrogation claims (a legal process where an insurer seeks reimbursement from responsible parties after paying a claim) to recover costs and potentially reduce insurance expenses for local residents. The resolution emphasizes Hawaii's state interest in protecting citizens from climate disasters and misleading corporate practices, and directs certified copies of the resolution to be sent to key state and national officials, including the Governor, Attorney General, and Insurance Commissioner.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SCR&billnumber=198&year=2025