SB 3252: DLNR; HCCMAC; Climate Change; Positions; Appropriation; Reports

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO CLIMATE PLANNING.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that the State faces billions of dollars in current and future losses and financial liabilities resulting from the impacts of climate change.  The legislature further finds that the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission (commission) was created to "provide policy direction, facilitation, coordination, and planning..." and "establish climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and goals to help guide planning and implementation..."  Those strategies and goals were to be used by the office of planning and sustainable development to develop the next steps for planning and implementation, and state departments were then to take action.

     However, the legislature further finds that the co-chairs responsible for the commission agenda and resulting work may have inherent conflicts of interest that have prevented the commission from fulfilling the vast majority of its statutorily mandated duties, resulting in missed opportunities to reduce climate-related impacts and costs for Hawaii residents.

     The legislature notes that the tasks assigned by statute to the commission were, in relevant part, to "identify existing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts at the federal, state, and local levels and make recommendations for how to meet or exceed Hawaii's state mitigation goals[,]" to "adopt a liberal approach in preparation, so as to minimize future risk to the people and environment of Hawaii[,]" to "assess the capacity and availability of existing resources and identify new sources of revenue necessary to address climate change mitigation and adaptation and [to] advise the governor, legislature, and counties on the economic and budgetary ramifications of climate change impacts, mitigation, and adaptation[,]" and to "identify the information necessary to track progress in implementing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts and [to] conduct a comprehensive review of the implementation as required by this section[.]"

     The legislature additionally finds that, while the state climate commission coordinator has done remarkable work with minimal resources under the commission's direction, the broader commission agenda, as set by the co‑chairs, has yet to consider, evaluate, or deliver meaningful recommendations, policies, and progress evaluations as required by statute.

     The legislature also finds that reforming the commission's structure can eliminate the potential conflicts of interest that have prevented the commission from performing its duties as required by law.  Currently, the co-chairs of the commission, the director of the office of planning and sustainable development and the chairperson of the board of land and natural resources, appear to be conflicted, as they are tasked with evaluating fellow departments on progress, which can naturally lead to conflicts within the executive branch.  The co‑chairs are also tasked with making recommendations to fellow departments and the legislature, which can conflict with the policy and budget priorities set by the administration.

     The legislature believes these structural conflicts must be resolved.  Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to:

     (1)  Amend the leadership, membership, powers, and duties of the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission;

     (2)  Establish the powers and duties of the climate change mitigation and adaptation commission coordinator;

     (3)  Beginning after December 31, 2026, require all department and agency plans and decisions to consider recommendations made by the commission and coordinator; and

     (4)  Appropriate funds for positions and other expenses.

     SECTION 2.  Section 225P-2, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new definition to be appropriately inserted and to read as follows:

     ""Coordinator" means the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation coordinator."

     SECTION 3.  Section 225P-3, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended to read as follows:

     "§225P-3  Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission; general functions, duties, and powers.  (a)  There is established the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission that shall be placed within the department of land and natural resources for administrative purposes only.

     (b)  Coordination of the commission shall be headed [jointly by the chairperson of the board of land and natural resources, or the chairperson's designee, and the director of the office of planning and sustainable development, or the director's designee.] by the coordinator.

     (c)  The commission shall include the following members:

     (1)  The coordinator, who shall serve as the chairperson of the commission;

    [(1)] (2)  The chairs of the standing committees of the legislature with subject matter jurisdiction encompassing environmental protection and land use;

    [(2)] (3)  The chairperson of the board of land and natural resources or the chairperson's designee[, who shall be the co-chair of the commission];

    [(3)] (4)  The director of the office of planning and sustainable development or the director's designee[, who shall be the co-chair of the commission];

    [(4)] (5)  The director of business, economic development, and tourism or the director's designee;

    [(5)] (6)  The chairperson of the board of directors of the Hawaii tourism authority or the chairperson's designee;

    [(6)] (7)  The chairperson of the board of agriculture and biosecurity or the chairperson's designee;

    [(7)] (8)  The chief executive officer of the office of Hawaiian affairs or the officer's designee;

    [(8)] (9)  The chairperson of the Hawaiian homes commission or the chairperson's designee;

    [(9)] (10)  The director of transportation or the director's designee;

   [(10)] (11)  The director of health or the director's designee;

   [(11)  The adjutant general or the adjutant general's designee;]

    (12)  The administrator of the Hawaii emergency management agency or the administrator's designee;

   [(12)] (13)  The chairperson of the board of education or the chairperson's designee;

   [(13)] (14)  The directors of each of the county planning departments[,] or the directors' designees; and

   [(14)  The manager of the coastal zone management program.]

    (15)  The comptroller or the comptroller's designee.

     (d)  In addition to the members listed in subsection (c), the [chairs of the commission] coordinator may request the participation or input of members of the public; experts in the field; and county, state, or federal officials or others as necessary.

     (e)  The members of the commission shall serve without pay but shall be reimbursed for their actual and necessary expenses, including travel expenses, incurred in carrying out their duties.

     [(f)  The commission shall provide policy direction, facilitation, coordination, and planning among state and county agencies, federal agencies, and other partners as appropriate.

     (g)  The commission shall establish climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and goals to help guide planning and implementation statewide using the latest scientific analysis and risk assessment to monitor and forecast climate change related impacts at the regional, state, and local level, including any additional information deemed necessary.

     (h)  The commission shall identify vulnerable people, communities, industries, ecosystems, and the potential economic ramifications for climate change related impacts.

     (i)  The commission shall identify existing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts at the federal, state, and local levels and make recommendations for how to meet or exceed Hawaii's state mitigation goals and shall adopt a liberal approach in preparation, so as to minimize future risk to the people and environment of Hawaii.

     (j)  The commission shall assess the capacity and availability of existing resources and identify new sources of revenue necessary to address climate change mitigation and adaptation and shall advise the governor, legislature, and counties on the economic and budgetary ramifications of climate change impacts, mitigation, and adaptation.

     (k)  The commission shall identify the information necessary to track progress in implementing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts and shall submit an annual report to the governor and legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of each regular session of the legislature.

     (l)  The commission shall maintain a website that includes a mission statement as well as access to climate change related actions, plans, policies, and results.

     (m)  The commission shall conduct a comprehensive review of the implementation as required by this section and submit a report to the governor, legislature, and the counties no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2023 and every five years thereafter.

     (n)  The commission shall, as a first step, focus on and develop sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation reports that shall include:

     (1)  Identification of the major areas of sea level rise impacts affecting the State and counties through 2050;

     (2)  Identification of expected impacts of sea level rise based on the latest scientific research for each area through 2050;

     (3)  Identification of the economic ramifications of sea level rise;

     (4)  Identification of applicable federal laws, policies, or programs that impact affected areas; and

     (5)  Recommendations for planning, management, and adaptation for hazards associated with increasing sea level rise.

The reports shall be made publicly available no later than December 31, 2017, and the commission shall reevaluate and update the sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation report every five years.

     (o)  In developing the report, pursuant to subsection (n), the commission shall:

     (1)  Solicit public views and concerns; and

     (2)  Coordinate with the various county, state, and federal agencies involved in ongoing climate change adaptation planning initiatives.]

     (f)  Each state department having an officer or employee as a member of the commission shall submit to the commission a report containing the department's plans and proposed courses of action to meet or exceed the State's climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets.  The coordinator shall assist the departments in complying with this subsection and shall make the reports publicly available.

     (g)  The commission may enter into contracts for the procurement of goods and services to advance climate change mitigation and adaptation.

     (h)  The coordinator may hire staff necessary to carry out the purposes of this section, including specialist positions exempt from chapter 76.

     (i)  The coordinator shall:

     (1)  Provide policy direction, facilitation, coordination, and planning among state and county agencies, federal agencies, and other partners as appropriate;

     (2)  Establish climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and goals to help guide statewide planning and implementation using the latest scientific analyses and risk assessments to monitor and forecast climate change-related impacts at the state and county levels;

     (3)  Identify vulnerable people, communities, industries, and ecosystems and the potential short- and long-term ramifications of climate-related impacts for public health, economics, and the environment, based on the latest and best international models;

     (4)  Identify existing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts in other jurisdictions and make recommendations for how to implement similar efforts in the State to meet or exceed the State's climate change mitigation and adaptation goals.  In establishing the recommendations, the coordinator shall adopt an approach that minimizes future risk to the people and environment of the State;

     (5)  Assess the capacity and availability of existing resources; identify any new sources of revenue necessary to address climate change mitigation and adaptation; and advise the governor, legislature, and counties on the economic and budgetary ramifications of climate change impacts, mitigation, and adaptation, including current or future costs for both the government and residents that may be avoided or reduced through mitigation or adaptation strategies, based on the latest and best international models;

     (6)  Evaluate the State's progress toward reaching climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets, including identifying the information necessary to track progress in implementing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts;

     (7)  Maintain a website that includes a mission statement as well as access to climate change-related actions, plans, policies, and results;

     (8)  Contract for services if required for the implementation of this chapter; and

     (9)  Conduct a comprehensive review of the efforts required by this section and submit a report to the governor, legislature, and counties no later than twenty days prior to each regular session that includes:

          (A)  Updated information related to paragraphs (1) through (6), including expected climate impacts on the public health, environment, and economy of the State based on the latest science; any current or future costs for both the government and residents that may be avoided or reduced through the latest mitigation or adaptation strategies; and the overall progress toward the State's climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets, as established by law; and

          (B)  For each state department having an officer or employee as a member of the commission and the department's respective jurisdiction:

              (i)  An update on the top three states, excluding the State, demonstrating the most progress on climate mitigation and adaptation related to the jurisdiction of that department, including an overview of that state's contributing policies, programs, projects, and best practices;

             (ii)  No fewer than five other examples of the most innovative and successful government projects, programs, policies, and best practices relevant to the jurisdiction of that department that have been developed or implemented by other countries, states, cities, or jurisdictions and that may help accelerate the department's success in meeting the climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets established by law;

            (iii)  The department's current plans and efforts to meet the climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets established by law; and

             (iv)  Recommendations for improving the department's current plans and proposed courses of action to better meet and exceed the State's climate_-related targets.

     (j)  After December 31, 2026, all department and agency plans and decisions shall consider the recommendations made pursuant to this chapter."

     SECTION 4.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for:

     (1)  The establishment of the following positions within the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission:

          (A)  Four full-time equivalent (4.0 FTE) specialist positions, exempt from chapter 76, Hawaii Revised Statutes;

          (B)  One full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) account clerk V; and

          (C)  One full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) office manager; and

     (2)  Other expenses, including contracts entered into under chapter 225P, Hawaii Revised Statutes.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 5.  Statutory material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken.  New statutory material is underscored.

     SECTION 6.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 3000.

Report Title:

DLNR; HCCMAC; Climate Change; Positions; Appropriation; Reports

Description:

Amends the leadership, membership, powers, and duties of the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission.  Establishes the powers and duties of the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission Coordinator.  Beginning after 12/31/2026, requires all department and agency plans and decisions to consider recommendations made by the Commission and Coordinator.  Appropriates funds for positions and other expenses.  Effective 7/1/3000.  (HD1)

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO CLIMATE PLANNING.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that the State faces billions of dollars in current and future losses and financial liabilities resulting from the impacts of climate change.  The legislature further finds that the Hawaii climate commission was created to "provide policy direction, facilitation, coordination, and planning..." and "establish climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and goals to help guide planning and implementation..."  Those strategies and goals were to be used to develop the next steps for planning and implementation by the office of planning and sustainable development, and state departments were then to take action.

     However, the legislature finds that the co-chairs responsible for the commission agenda and resulting work may have inherent conflicts of interest that have prevented the commission from fulfilling the vast majority of its statutorily mandated duties, resulting in missed opportunities to reduce climate-related impacts and costs for Hawaii residents.

     The legislature notes that the tasks assigned by statute to the commission were, in relevant part, to "identify existing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts at the federal, state, and local levels and make recommendations for how to meet or exceed Hawaii's state mitigation goals[,]" to "adopt a liberal approach in preparation, so as to minimize future risk to the people and environment of Hawaii[,]" to "assess the capacity and availability of existing resources and identify new sources of revenue necessary to address climate change mitigation and adaptation and [to] advise the governor, legislature, and counties on the economic and budgetary ramifications of climate change impacts, mitigation, and adaptation[,]" and to "identify the information necessary to track progress in implementing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts and [to] conduct a comprehensive review of the implementation as required by this section[.]"

     The legislature finds that, while the coordinator has done remarkable work with minimal resources under the commission's direction, the broader commission agenda, as set by the co‑chairs, has yet to consider, evaluate, or deliver meaningful recommendations, policies, and progress evaluations as required by statute.

     The legislature also finds that reforming the commission's structure can eliminate the potential conflicts of interest that have prevented the commission from performing its duties as required by law.  Currently, the co-chairs of the commission, the head of the office of planning and sustainable development, and the chair of the department of land and natural resources, appear to be conflicted, as they are tasked with evaluating fellow departments on progress, which can naturally lead to conflicts within the executive branch of government.  The co‑chairs are also tasked with making recommendations to fellow departments and the legislature, which can conflict with the policy and budget priorities set by the administration.

     The legislature believes these structural conflicts must be resolved.  Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to:

     (1)  Restructure the leadership of the climate change mitigation and adaptation commission to reduce the conflicts of interest that may be contributing to the commission co-chairs' failure to set an agenda that meets the requirements of the law; and

     (2)  Provide additional capacity for the commission to do the work intended by statute, including identifying and providing strategies and recommendations to the legislature and departments, which can inform planning and implementation by the office of planning and sustainable development, and other agencies.

     SECTION 2.  Section 225P-2, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new definition to be appropriately inserted and to read as follows:

     ""Coordinator" means the climate change mitigation and adaptation coordinator."

     SECTION 3.  Section 225P-3, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended to read as follows:

     "§225P-3  Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission; general functions, duties, and powers.  (a)  There is established the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission that shall be placed within the department of land and natural resources for administrative purposes only.

     (b)  Coordination of the commission shall be headed [jointly by the chairperson of the board of land and natural resources, or the chairperson's designee, and the director of the office of planning and sustainable development, or the director's designee.] by the climate change mitigation and adaptation coordinator.

     (c)  The commission shall include the following members:

     (1)  The coordinator, who shall serve as the chairperson of the commission;

    [(1)] (2)  The chairs of the standing committees of the legislature with subject matter jurisdiction encompassing environmental protection and land use;

    [(2)] (3)  The chairperson of the board of land and natural resources or the chairperson's designee[, who shall be the co-chair of the commission];

    [(3)] (4)  The director of the office of planning and sustainable development or the director's designee[, who shall be the co-chair of the commission];

    [(4)] (5)  The director of business, economic development, and tourism or the director's designee;

    [(5)] (6)  The chairperson of the board of directors of the Hawaii tourism authority or the chairperson's designee;

    [(6)] (7)  The chairperson of the board of agriculture and biosecurity or the chairperson's designee;

    [(7)] (8)  The chief executive officer of the office of Hawaiian affairs or the officer's designee;

    [(8)] (9)  The chairperson of the Hawaiian homes commission or the chairperson's designee;

    [(9)] (10)  The director of transportation or the director's designee;

   [(10)] (11)  The director of health or the director's designee;

   [(11)  The adjutant general or the adjutant general's designee;]

    (12)  The administrator of the Hawaii emergency management agency or the administrator's designee;

   [(12)] (13)  The chairperson of the board of education or the chairperson's designee;

   [(13)] (14)  The directors of each of the county planning departments[,] or the directors' designees; and

   [(14)  The manager of the coastal zone management program.]

    (15)  The comptroller or comptroller's designee.

     (d)  In addition to the members listed in subsection (c), the [chairs of the commission] coordinator may request the participation or input of members of the public; experts in the field; and county, state, or federal officials or others as necessary.

     (e)  The members of the commission shall serve without pay but shall be reimbursed for their actual and necessary expenses, including travel expenses, incurred in carrying out their duties.

     [(f)  The commission shall provide policy direction, facilitation, coordination, and planning among state and county agencies, federal agencies, and other partners as appropriate.

     (g)  The commission shall establish climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and goals to help guide planning and implementation statewide using the latest scientific analysis and risk assessment to monitor and forecast climate change related impacts at the regional, state, and local level, including any additional information deemed necessary.

     (h)  The commission shall identify vulnerable people, communities, industries, ecosystems, and the potential economic ramifications for climate change related impacts.

     (i)  The commission shall identify existing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts at the federal, state, and local levels and make recommendations for how to meet or exceed Hawaii's state mitigation goals and shall adopt a liberal approach in preparation, so as to minimize future risk to the people and environment of Hawaii.

     (j)  The commission shall assess the capacity and availability of existing resources and identify new sources of revenue necessary to address climate change mitigation and adaptation and shall advise the governor, legislature, and counties on the economic and budgetary ramifications of climate change impacts, mitigation, and adaptation.

     (k)  The commission shall identify the information necessary to track progress in implementing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts and shall submit an annual report to the governor and legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of each regular session of the legislature.

     (l)  The commission shall maintain a website that includes a mission statement as well as access to climate change related actions, plans, policies, and results.

     (m)  The commission shall conduct a comprehensive review of the implementation as required by this section and submit a report to the governor, legislature, and the counties no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2023 and every five years thereafter.

     (n)  The commission shall, as a first step, focus on and develop sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation reports that shall include:

     (1)  Identification of the major areas of sea level rise impacts affecting the State and counties through 2050;

     (2)  Identification of expected impacts of sea level rise based on the latest scientific research for each area through 2050;

     (3)  Identification of the economic ramifications of sea level rise;

     (4)  Identification of applicable federal laws, policies, or programs that impact affected areas; and

     (5)  Recommendations for planning, management, and adaptation for hazards associated with increasing sea level rise.

The reports shall be made publicly available no later than December 31, 2017, and the commission shall reevaluate and update the sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation report every five years.

     (o)  In developing the report, pursuant to subsection (n), the commission shall:

     (1)  Solicit public views and concerns; and

     (2)  Coordinate with the various county, state, and federal agencies involved in ongoing climate change adaptation planning initiatives.]

     (f)  Each state department having an officer or employee as a member of the commission shall submit to the commission a report containing the department's plans and proposed courses of action to meet or exceed the State's climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets.  The coordinator shall assist the departments in complying with this subsection and shall make the reports publicly available.

     (g)  The commission may enter into contracts for the procurement of goods and services to advance climate change mitigation and adaptation.

     (h)  The coordinator may hire staff necessary to carry out the purposes of this section.

     (i)  The coordinator shall:

     (1)  Provide policy direction, facilitation, coordination, and planning among state and county agencies, federal agencies, and other partners as appropriate;

     (2)  Establish climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and goals to help guide statewide planning and implementation using the latest scientific analyses and risk assessments to monitor and forecast climate change-related impacts at the state and county levels;

     (3)  Identify vulnerable people, communities, industries, and ecosystems, and the potential short- and long-term ramifications of climate-related impacts for public health, economics, and the environment, based on the latest and best international models;

     (4)  Identify existing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts in other jurisdictions and make recommendations for how to implement similar efforts in the State to meet or exceed the State's climate change mitigation and adaptation goals.  In establishing the recommendations, the coordinator shall adopt an approach that minimizes future risk to the people and environment of the State;

     (5)  Assess the capacity and availability of existing resources; identify any new sources of revenue necessary to address climate change mitigation and adaptation; and advise the governor, legislature, and counties on the economic and budgetary ramifications of climate change impacts, mitigation, and adaptation, including current or future costs for both the government and residents that may be avoided or reduced through mitigation or adaptation strategies, based on the latest and best international models;

     (6)  Evaluate the State's progress toward reaching climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets, including identifying the information necessary to track progress in implementing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts;

     (7)  Maintain a website that includes a mission statement as well as access to climate change-related actions, plans, policies, and results;

     (8)  Contract for services if required for the implementation of this chapter; and

     (9)  Conduct a comprehensive review of the efforts required by this section and submit a report to the governor, legislature, and counties no later than twenty days prior to each regular session that includes:

          (A)  Updated information related to paragraphs (1) through (6), including expected climate impacts on the public health, environment, and economy of the State based on the latest science; any current or future costs for both the government and residents that may be avoided or reduced through the latest mitigation or adaptation strategies; and the overall progress toward the State's climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets, as established by law; and

          (B)  For each state department having an officer or employee as a member of the commission and the department's respective jurisdiction:

               (i)  An update on the top three states, excluding the State, demonstrating the most progress on climate mitigation and adaptation related to the jurisdiction of that department, including an overview of that state's contributing policies, programs, projects, and best practices;

              (ii)  No fewer than five other examples of the most innovative and successful government projects, programs, policies, and best practices relevant to the jurisdiction of that department that have been developed or implemented by other countries, states, cities, or jurisdictions and that may help accelerate the department's success in meeting the climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets established by law;

             (iii)  The department's current plans and efforts to meet the climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets established by law; and

              (iv)  Recommendations for improving the department's current plans and proposed courses of action to better meet and exceed the State's climate_-related targets.

     (j)  After December 31, 2026, all department and agency plans and decisions shall consider the recommendations made pursuant to this chapter."

     SECTION 4.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the establishment of the following positions within the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission:

     (1)  Four full-time equivalent (4.0 FTE) specialist positions, exempt from chapter 76, Hawaii Revised Statutes;

     (2)  One full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) account clerk V; and

     (3)  One full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) office manager;

and other expenses, including contracts entered into under chapter 225P, Hawaii Revised Statutes.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 5.  Statutory material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken.  New statutory material is underscored.

     SECTION 6.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2050.

Report Title:

DLNR; HCCMAC; Climate Change; Positions; Appropriation; Reports

Description:

Amends the powers and duties of the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources.  Establishes a Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission Coordinator position to lead the Commission.  Requires annual reports to the Governor, Legislature, and counties.  Establishes six full-time equivalent positions within the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission.  Appropriates funds.  Effective 7/1/2050.  (SD2)

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO CLIMATE PLANNING.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that the State faces billions of dollars in current and future losses resulting from the impacts of climate change.  These impacts include shoreline erosion accelerated by sea level rise, increased public health and medical costs due to rising urban heat, agricultural losses driven by drought, degradation of coral reefs and fisheries caused by warming and ocean acidification, and more frequent and severe disasters fueled by shifting weather patterns.  The State residents will ultimately bear these costs, driving up the cost of living and diminishing quality of life.

     The legislature further finds that numerous other states and jurisdictions have advanced far beyond the State in developing innovative policies, programs, projects, and best practices to address these same challenges.  These efforts have reduced current costs for their residents while preventing billions of dollars in future losses.

     The legislature believes that the State must more effectively evaluate and adopt proven strategies from other jurisdictions that have reduced harm, lowered costs, and provided tangible benefits to local communities.  Although the State is among the states most exposed to climate‑related risks, progress on climate mitigation and adaptation has been slow, leaving state residents vulnerable to unnecessary impacts and avoidable financial burdens.

     The purpose of this Act is to strengthen the capacity of the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission to:

     (1)  Better assess the climate impacts affecting the State;

     (2)  Identify effective strategies used in other jurisdictions; and

     (3)  Develop recommendations.

     SECTION 2.  Section 225P-2, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new definition to be appropriately inserted and to read as follows:

     ""Coordinator" means the climate change mitigation and adaptation coordinator."

     SECTION 3.  Section 225P-3, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended to read as follows:

     "§225P-3  Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission; general functions, duties, and powers.  (a)  There is established the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission that shall be placed within the department of land and natural resources for administrative purposes only.

     (b)  Coordination of the commission shall be headed [jointly by the chairperson of the board of land and natural resources, or the chairperson's designee, and the director of the office of planning and sustainable development, or the director's designee.] by the climate change mitigation and adaptation coordinator.

     (c)  The commission shall include the following members:

     (1)  The coordinator, who shall serve as the chairperson of the commission;

    [(1)] (2)  The chairs of the standing committees of the legislature with subject matter jurisdiction encompassing environmental protection and land use;

    [(2)] (3)  The chairperson of the board of land and natural resources or the chairperson's designee[, who shall be the co-chair of the commission];

    [(3)] (4)  The director of the office of planning and sustainable development or the director's designee[, who shall be the co-chair of the commission];

    [(4)] (5)  The director of business, economic development, and tourism or the director's designee;

    [(5)] (6)  The chairperson of the board of directors of the Hawaii tourism authority or the chairperson's designee;

    [(6)] (7)  The chairperson of the board of agriculture and biosecurity or the chairperson's designee;

    [(7)] (8)  The chief executive officer of the office of Hawaiian affairs or the officer's designee;

    [(8)] (9)  The chairperson of the Hawaiian homes commission or the chairperson's designee;

    [(9)] (10)  The director of transportation or the director's designee;

   [(10)] (11)  The director of health or the director's designee;

   [(11)  The adjutant general or the adjutant general's designee;]

    (12)  The administrator of the Hawaii emergency management agency or the administrator's designee;

   [(12)] (13)  The chairperson of the board of education or the chairperson's designee;

   [(13)] (14)  The directors of each of the county planning departments[,] or the directors' designees; and

   [(14)  The manager of the coastal zone management program.]

    (15)  The comptroller or comptroller's designee.

     (d)  In addition to the members listed in subsection (c), the [chairs of the commission] coordinator may request the participation or input of members of the public; experts in the field; and county, state, or federal officials or others as necessary.

     (e)  The members of the commission shall serve without pay but shall be reimbursed for their actual and necessary expenses, including travel expenses, incurred in carrying out their duties.

     [(f)  The commission shall provide policy direction, facilitation, coordination, and planning among state and county agencies, federal agencies, and other partners as appropriate.

     (g)  The commission shall establish climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and goals to help guide planning and implementation statewide using the latest scientific analysis and risk assessment to monitor and forecast climate change related impacts at the regional, state, and local level, including any additional information deemed necessary.

     (h)  The commission shall identify vulnerable people, communities, industries, ecosystems, and the potential economic ramifications for climate change related impacts.

     (i)  The commission shall identify existing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts at the federal, state, and local levels and make recommendations for how to meet or exceed Hawaii's state mitigation goals and shall adopt a liberal approach in preparation, so as to minimize future risk to the people and environment of Hawaii.

     (j)  The commission shall assess the capacity and availability of existing resources and identify new sources of revenue necessary to address climate change mitigation and adaptation and shall advise the governor, legislature, and counties on the economic and budgetary ramifications of climate change impacts, mitigation, and adaptation.

     (k)  The commission shall identify the information necessary to track progress in implementing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts and shall submit an annual report to the governor and legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of each regular session of the legislature.

     (l)  The commission shall maintain a website that includes a mission statement as well as access to climate change related actions, plans, policies, and results.

     (m)  The commission shall conduct a comprehensive review of the implementation as required by this section and submit a report to the governor, legislature, and the counties no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2023 and every five years thereafter.

     (n)  The commission shall, as a first step, focus on and develop sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation reports that shall include:

     (1)  Identification of the major areas of sea level rise impacts affecting the State and counties through 2050;

     (2)  Identification of expected impacts of sea level rise based on the latest scientific research for each area through 2050;

     (3)  Identification of the economic ramifications of sea level rise;

     (4)  Identification of applicable federal laws, policies, or programs that impact affected areas; and

     (5)  Recommendations for planning, management, and adaptation for hazards associated with increasing sea level rise.

The reports shall be made publicly available no later than December 31, 2017, and the commission shall reevaluate and update the sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation report every five years.

     (o)  In developing the report, pursuant to subsection (n), the commission shall:

     (1)  Solicit public views and concerns; and

     (2)  Coordinate with the various county, state, and federal agencies involved in ongoing climate change adaptation planning initiatives.]

     (f)  Each state department having an officer or employee as a member of the commission shall submit to the commission a report containing the department's plans and proposed courses of action to meet or exceed the State's climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets.  The coordinator shall assist the departments in complying with this subsection and shall make the reports publicly available.

     (g)  The commission may enter into contracts for the procurement of goods and services to advance climate change mitigation and adaptation.

     (h)  The coordinator may hire staff necessary to carry out the purposes of this section.

     (i)  The coordinator shall:

     (1)  Provide policy direction, facilitation, coordination, and planning among state and county agencies, federal agencies, and other partners as appropriate;

     (2)  Establish climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and goals to help guide statewide planning and implementation using the latest scientific analyses and risk assessments to monitor and forecast climate change-related impacts at the state and county levels;

     (3)  Identify vulnerable people, communities, industries, and ecosystems, and the potential short- and long-term ramifications of climate-related impacts for public health, economics, and the environment, based on the latest and best international models;

     (4)  Identify existing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts in other jurisdictions and make recommendations for how to implement similar efforts in the State to meet or exceed the State's climate change mitigation and adaptation goals.  In establishing the recommendations, the coordinator shall adopt an approach that minimizes future risk to the people and environment of the State;

     (5)  Assess the capacity and availability of existing resources; identify any new sources of revenue necessary to address climate change mitigation and adaptation; and advise the governor, legislature, and counties on the economic and budgetary ramifications of climate change impacts, mitigation, and adaptation, including current or future costs for both the government and residents that may be avoided or reduced through mitigation or adaptation strategies, based on the latest and best international models;

     (6)  Evaluate the State's progress toward reaching climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets, including identifying the information necessary to track progress in implementing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts;

     (7)  Maintain a website that includes a mission statement as well as access to climate change-related actions, plans, policies, and results;

     (8)  Contract for services if required for the implementation of this chapter; and

     (9)  Conduct a comprehensive review of the efforts required by this section and submit a report to the governor, legislature, and counties no later than twenty days prior to each regular session that includes:

          (A)  Updated information related to paragraphs (1) through (6), including expected climate impacts on the public health, environment, and economy of the State based on the latest science; any current or future costs for both the government and residents that may be avoided or reduced through the latest mitigation or adaptation strategies; and the overall progress toward the State's climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets, as established by law; and

          (B)  For each state department having an officer or employee as a member of the commission and the department's respective jurisdiction:

               (i)  An update on the top three states, excluding the State, demonstrating the most progress on climate mitigation and adaptation related to the jurisdiction of that department, including an overview of that state's contributing policies, programs, projects, and best practices;

              (ii)  No fewer than five other examples of the most innovative and successful government projects, programs, policies, and best practices relevant to the jurisdiction of that department that have been developed or implemented by other countries, states, cities, or jurisdictions and that may help accelerate the department's success in meeting the climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets established by law;

             (iii)  The department's current plans and efforts to meet the climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets established by law; and

              (iv)  Recommendations for improving the department's current plans and proposed courses of action to better meet and exceed the State's climate_-related targets.

     (j)  After December 31, 2026, all department and agency plans and decisions shall consider the recommendations made pursuant to this chapter."

     SECTION 4.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the establishment of the following positions within the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission:

     (1)  Four full-time equivalent (4.0 FTE) specialist positions, exempt from chapter 76, Hawaii Revised Statutes;

     (2)  One full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) account clerk V; and

     (3)  One full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) office manager;

and other expenses, including contracts entered into under chapter 225P, Hawaii Revised Statutes.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 5.  Statutory material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken.  New statutory material is underscored.

     SECTION 6.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2050.

Report Title:

DLNR; HCCMAC; Climate Change; Positions; Appropriation; Reports

Description:

Amends the powers and duties of the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources.  Establishes a Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission Coordinator position to lead the Commission.  Requires annual reports to the Governor, Legislature, and counties.  Establishes six full-time equivalent positions within the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission.  Appropriates funds.  Effective 7/1/2050.  (SD1)

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

relating to climate planning.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that Hawaii faces billions of dollars in current and future losses resulting from the impacts of climate change.  These impacts include shoreline erosion accelerated by sea level rise, increased public health and medical costs due to rising urban heat, agricultural losses driven by drought, degradation of coral reefs and fisheries caused by warming and ocean acidification, and more frequent and severe disasters fueled by shifting weather patterns.  Hawaii residents will ultimately bear these costs, driving up the cost of living and diminishing quality of life.

     The legislature further finds that numerous other states and jurisdictions have advanced far beyond Hawaii in developing innovative policies, programs, projects, and best practices to address these same challenges.  These efforts have reduced current costs for their residents while preventing billions of dollars in future losses.

     The legislature believes that Hawaii must more effectively evaluate and adopt proven strategies from other jurisdictions that have reduced harm, lowered costs, and provided tangible benefits to local communities.  Although Hawaii is among the states most exposed to climate‑related risks, progress on climate mitigation and adaptation has been slow, leaving Hawaii residents vulnerable to unnecessary impacts and avoidable financial burdens.

     The purpose of this Act is to strengthen the capacity of the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission to:

     (1)  Better assess the climate impacts affecting Hawaii;

     (2)  Identify effective strategies used in other jurisdictions; and

     (3)  Develop recommendations.

     SECTION 2.  Section 225P-2, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new definition to be appropriately inserted and to read as follows:

     ""Coordinator" means the climate change mitigation and adaptation coordinator."

     SECTION 3.  Section 225P-3, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended to read as follows:

     "§225P-3  Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission; general functions, duties, and powers.  (a)  There is established the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission that shall be placed within the department of land and natural resources for administrative purposes only.

     (b)  Coordination of the commission shall be headed [jointly by the chairperson of the board of land and natural resources, or the chairperson's designee, and the director of the office of planning and sustainable development, or the director's designee.] by the climate change mitigation and adaptation coordinator.

     (c)  The commission shall include the following members:

     (1)  The coordinator, who shall serve as the chairperson of the commission;

    [(1)] (2)  The chairs of the standing committees of the legislature with subject matter jurisdiction encompassing environmental protection and land use;

    [(2)] (3)  The chairperson of the board of land and natural resources or the chairperson's designee[, who shall be the co-chair of the commission];

    [(3)] (4)  The director of the office of planning and sustainable development or the director's designee[, who shall be the co-chair of the commission];

    [(4)] (5)  The director of business, economic development, and tourism or the director's designee;

    [(5)] (6)  The chairperson of the board of directors of the Hawaii tourism authority or the chairperson's designee;

    [(6)] (7)  The chairperson of the board of agriculture and biosecurity or the chairperson's designee;

    [(7)] (8)  The chief executive officer of the office of Hawaiian affairs or the officer's designee;

    [(8)] (9)  The chairperson of the Hawaiian homes commission or the chairperson's designee;

    [(9)] (10)  The director of transportation or the director's designee;

   [(10)] (11)  The director of health or the director's designee;

   [(11)  The adjutant general or the adjutant general's designee;]

    (12)  The administrator of the Hawaii emergency management agency or the administrator's designee;

   [(12)] (13)  The chairperson of the board of education or the chairperson's designee;

   [(13)] (14)  The directors of each of the county planning departments, or the directors' designees; and

   [(14)  The manager of the coastal zone management program.]

    (15)  The comptroller or comptroller's designee.

     (d)  In addition to the members listed in subsection (c), the [chairs of the commission] coordinator may request the participation or input of members of the public; experts in the field; and county, state, or federal officials or others as necessary.

     (e)  The members of the commission shall serve without pay but shall be reimbursed for their actual and necessary expenses, including travel expenses, incurred in carrying out their duties.

     [(f)  The commission shall provide policy direction, facilitation, coordination, and planning among state and county agencies, federal agencies, and other partners as appropriate.

     (g)  The commission shall establish climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and goals to help guide planning and implementation statewide using the latest scientific analysis and risk assessment to monitor and forecast climate change related impacts at the regional, state, and local level, including any additional information deemed necessary.

     (h)  The commission shall identify vulnerable people, communities, industries, ecosystems, and the potential economic ramifications for climate change related impacts.

     (i)  The commission shall identify existing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts at the federal, state, and local levels and make recommendations for how to meet or exceed Hawaii's state mitigation goals and shall adopt a liberal approach in preparation, so as to minimize future risk to the people and environment of Hawaii.

     (j)  The commission shall assess the capacity and availability of existing resources and identify new sources of revenue necessary to address climate change mitigation and adaptation and shall advise the governor, legislature, and counties on the economic and budgetary ramifications of climate change impacts, mitigation, and adaptation.

     (k)  The commission shall identify the information necessary to track progress in implementing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts and shall submit an annual report to the governor and legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of each regular session of the legislature.

     (l)  The commission shall maintain a website that includes a mission statement as well as access to climate change related actions, plans, policies, and results.

     (m)  The commission shall conduct a comprehensive review of the implementation as required by this section and submit a report to the governor, legislature, and the counties no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2023 and every five years thereafter.

     (n)  The commission shall, as a first step, focus on and develop sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation reports that shall include:

     (1)  Identification of the major areas of sea level rise impacts affecting the State and counties through 2050;

     (2)  Identification of expected impacts of sea level rise based on the latest scientific research for each area through 2050;

     (3)  Identification of the economic ramifications of sea level rise;

     (4)  Identification of applicable federal laws, policies, or programs that impact affected areas; and

     (5)  Recommendations for planning, management, and adaptation for hazards associated with increasing sea level rise.

The reports shall be made publicly available no later than December 31, 2017, and the commission shall reevaluate and update the sea level rise vulnerability and adaptation report every five years.

     (o)  In developing the report, pursuant to subsection (n), the commission shall:

     (1)  Solicit public views and concerns; and

     (2)  Coordinate with the various county, state, and federal agencies involved in ongoing climate change adaptation planning initiatives.]

     (f)  Each state department having an officer or employee as a member of the commission shall submit to the commission a report containing the department's plans and proposed courses of action to meet or exceed the state's climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets.  The coordinator shall assist the departments in complying with this subsection and shall make the reports publicly available.

     (g)  The commission may enter into contracts for the procurement of goods and services to advance climate change mitigation and adaptation.

     (h)  The coordinator may hire staff necessary to carry out the purposes of this part.

     (i)  The coordinator shall:

     (1)  Provide policy direction, facilitation, coordination, and planning among state and county agencies, federal agencies, and other partners as appropriate;

     (2)  Establish climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and goals to help guide statewide planning and implementation using the latest scientific analyses and risk assessments to monitor and forecast climate change-related impacts at the state and county levels;

     (3)  Identify vulnerable people, communities, industries, and ecosystems, and the potential short- and long-term ramifications of climate-related impacts for public health, economics, and the environment, based on the latest and best international models;

     (4)  Identify existing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts in other jurisdictions and make recommendations for how to implement similar efforts in Hawaii to meet or exceed the State's climate change mitigation and adaptation goals.  In establishing the recommendations, the coordinator shall adopt an approach that minimizes future risk to the people and environment of Hawaii;

     (5)  Assess the capacity and availability of existing resources; identify any new sources of revenue necessary to address climate change mitigation and adaptation; and advise the governor, legislature, and counties on the economic and budgetary ramifications of climate change impacts, mitigation, and adaptation, including current or future costs for both the government and residents that may be avoided or reduced through mitigation or adaptation strategies, based on the latest and best international models;

     (6)  Evaluate the State's progress toward reaching climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets, including identifying the information necessary to track progress in implementing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts;

     (7)  Maintain a website that includes a mission statement as well as access to climate change-related actions, plans, policies, and results;

     (8)  Contract for services if required for the implementation of this chapter; and

     (9)  Conduct a comprehensive review of the efforts required by this section and submit a report to the governor, legislature, and counties no later than twenty days prior to each regular session that includes:

          (A)  Updated information related to paragraphs (1) through (6), including expected climate impacts on the public health, environment, and economy of Hawaii based on the latest science; any current or future costs for both the government and residents that may be avoided or reduced through the latest mitigation or adaptation strategies; and the overall progress toward the State's climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets, as established by law; and

          (B)  For each state department having an officer or employee as a member of the commission and the department's respective jurisdiction:

               (i)  An update on the top three states, excluding Hawaii, demonstrating the most progress on climate mitigation and adaptation related to the jurisdiction of that department, including an overview of that state's contributing policies, programs, projects, and best practices;

              (ii)  No fewer than five other examples of the most innovative and successful government projects, programs, policies, and best practices relevant to the jurisdiction of that department that have been developed or implemented by other countries, states, cities, or jurisdictions and that may help accelerate the department's success in meeting the climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets established by law;

             (iii)  The department's current plans and efforts to meet the climate mitigation and adaptation directives and targets established by law; and

              (iv)  Recommendations for improving the department's current plans and proposed courses of action to better meet and exceed the State's climate_-related targets.

     (j)  After December 31, 2026, all department and agency plans and decisions shall consider the recommendations made pursuant to this chapter."

     SECTION 4.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $500,000 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the establishment of:

     (1)  Four full-time equivalent (4.0 FTE) specialist positions, exempt from chapter 76, Hawaii Revised Statutes;

     (2)  One full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) account clerk V;

     (3)  One full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) office manager; and

     (4)  Other expenses, including contracts entered into under chapter 225P, Hawaii Revised Statutes.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 5.  Statutory material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken.  New statutory material is underscored.

     SECTION 6.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2026.

Report Title:

DLNR; HCCMAC; Climate Change; Appropriation; Reports

Description:

Amends the powers and duties of the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources.  Establishes a Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission Coordinator position to lead the Commission.  Appropriates moneys.  Requires annual reports to the Governor, Legislature, and counties.

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

STAND. COM. REP. NO. 2934

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:     S.B. No. 3252

        S.D. 2

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Ways and Means, to which was referred S.B. No. 3252, S.D. 1, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CLIMATE PLANNING,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to strengthen the capacity of the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission by restructuring the Commission's leadership and clarifying its membership and responsibilities.

     Your Committee received written comments in support of this measure from one individual.

     Your Committee received written comments in opposition to this measure from one individual.

     Your Committee received written comments on this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources and Office of Planning and Sustainable Development.

     Your Committee finds that the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission was established to provide policy direction, facilitation, coordination, and planning, and to provide climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and goals to help guide policy implementation.  However, your Committee finds that the current model for the Commission may have inherent conflicts of interest that have prevented the Commission from fulfilling most of its statutory mandates, thereby missing opportunities to reduce climate-related impacts and save on costs for the State.  Accordingly, your Committee finds that this measure's restructuring of the Commission and expansion of its capacity will help the Commission fulfill its mission and statutory duties.

     Your Committee has amended this measure by inserting a new preamble section to better align it with the measure's content.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Ways and Means that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 3252, S.D. 1, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Third Reading in the form attached hereto as S.B. No. 3252, S.D. 2.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Ways and Means,

STAND. COM. REP. NO. 2624

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:     S.B. No. 3252

        S.D. 1

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committees on Water, Land, Culture and the Arts and Agriculture and Environment, to which was referred S.B. No. 3252 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CLIMATE PLANNING,"

beg leave to report as follows:

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to:

     (1)  Amend the powers and duties of the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources;

     (2)  Establish a Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission Coordinator position to lead the Commission;

     (3)  Appropriate funds for the establishment of positions; and

     (4)  Require annual reports to the Governor, Legislature, and counties by the Commission.

     Your Committees received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources and one individual.

     Your Committees received comments on this measure from the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development.

     Your Committees find that the State is already experiencing significant and compounding impacts from climate change that have inflicted heavy costs on both the economy and the public well‑being.  Your Committees are aware that the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission was established to develop strategies, assess risks, and guide statewide plans to mitigate future climate change-related impacts.  Your Committees note, however, that the Commission does not have a structure or the leadership that empowers its agency.  This measure strengthens the State's capacity to coordinate, plan, and implement mitigation and adaptation across departments and with county and federal partners.

     Your Committees have amended this measure by:

     (1)  Inverting a blank appropriation amount;

     (2)  Inserting an effective date of July 1, 2050, to encourage further discussion; and

     (3)  Making technical, nonsubstantive amendments for the purposes of clarity and consistency.

     Your Committees note that this measure, as amended, contains an appropriation for an unspecified amount.  Should your Committee on Ways and Means choose to deliberate on this measure, your Committees respectfully request that it considers inserting an appropriate amount after evaluating the future costs associated with this measure and potential pathways for the State to reduce costs.

     As affirmed by the records of votes of the members of your Committees on Water, Land, Culture and the Arts and Agriculture and Environment that are attached to this report, your Committees are in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 3252, as amended herein, and recommend that it pass Second Reading in the form attached hereto as S.B. No. 3252, S.D. 1, and be referred to your Committee on Ways and Means.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committees on Water, Land, Culture and the Arts and Agriculture and Environment,