Bill > HR15

This resolution requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), in collaboration with the Department of Education (DOE) and the State Public Charter School Commission, to create a voluntary Student Coral Stewardship Program. This program aims to educate the public about protecting coral reefs, particularly by raising awareness of reef-safe sunscreen options, as certain sunscreen chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate have been shown to harm coral reefs, contributing to coral bleaching. The program will be educational and non-enforcement, potentially involving student-led outreach and community engagement based on scientific research, building on previous legislative efforts to protect coral reefs. The DLNR is also asked to report back to the Legislature by early 2027 on the collaborative efforts, student input, and any recommendations for advancing coral reef protection and student stewardship.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=15&year=2026