SB 3253: DLNR; Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary; Endangered Species; Wildlife; Conservation

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO CONSERVATION.

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

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that numerous species in the State are on the brink of extinction, in particular many indigenous birds found nowhere else in the world.  While the State has made progress in addressing the myriad causes contributing to extinction, the legislature finds that existing efforts must be supplemented to prevent further loss of biodiversity.

     The legislature recognizes that Zealandia (Te Mara a Tane) is a pioneering conservation sanctuary in Wellington, New Zealand, best known for proving how dramatically nature can rebound with proper protection.  Built as a fully fenced, predator-excluded sanctuary, Zealandia creates a safe haven where native birds, reptiles, and plants thrive and recover in near-natural habitats, safe from invasive predators and vectors.  This model has not only enabled the reintroduction and rapid growth of iconic native species that were once on the brink of extinction, but it has also transformed the valley into a living example of ecosystem restoration in a modern city.

     Just as importantly, Zealandia's impact extends beyond its fence line:  thriving populations disperse outward into surrounding neighborhoods and green spaces, helping native wildlife return to the wider region.  Zealandia also facilitates community engagement by welcoming volunteers, residents, researchers, and visitors, and serving as a hub for school programs and hands-on learning.  Its success in engaging the community and visitors has helped Zealandia become largely self‑funded through admissions, memberships, tours, and experiences that reinvest directly into conservation.

     The legislature also recognizes that successful sanctuary models in the United States generate substantial revenue for conservation efforts.  They serve as educational centers for local schools and visitor destinations and provide critical habitats for endangered and other species.  The State's climate and environment provide more diverse habitats for wildlife than found elsewhere in the continental United States.  With appropriate considerations and protections to ensure no adverse impact on the state environment, the State can improve the living conditions of rescued animals from other states and generate significant revenue for state conservation efforts.

     The legislature believes that the State is uniquely positioned to become a national center for endangered species research, education, and protection.  Establishing sanctuaries in the State like those that have proven successful elsewhere can advance the State's position as the premier place for endangered species work and conservation and create pathways for local education, jobs, investment, and research.

     The legislature also believes that successful nonprofit models for the establishment and operation of specialized models of endangered species sanctuaries are an efficient and preferable way to supplement broader government-run efforts and programs.  The nonprofit models provide more flexibility and adaptability for management, operations, innovation, and community engagement.

     The legislature further finds that the establishment of a nonprofit entity to create and manage endangered species sanctuaries and exempting appropriations of state funds to the entity from the requirements of chapter 42F, Hawaii Revised Statutes, complies with the public purpose requirements of article VII, section 4, of the Hawaii State Constitution.

     Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to enable additional support for the State's conservation efforts through recognizing a nonprofit entity established pursuant to senate resolution 94, senate draft 1, regular session of 2026, to create and manage endangered species sanctuaries.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 195D, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

     "§195D-     Hawaii conservation sanctuary.  (a)  There shall be recognized by the State the Hawaii conservation sanctuary, which shall be a nonprofit organization established pursuant to senate resolution 94, senate draft 1, regular session of 2026, to enhance and support the work of conservation and endangered species and wildlife preservation, and to oversee related and ancillary programs.  The official designation of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary shall be the State of Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary.

     (b)  The Hawaii conservation sanctuary shall protect and expand populations of endangered species and other wildlife within the State by developing and operating conservation sanctuaries in the State, including:

     (1)  One around a recreational body of water;

     (2)  One in an area appropriate for the protection of native birds and other species; and

     (3)  One in an area appropriate for the protection of rescue animals and larger species of wildlife.

     (c)  The Hawaii conservation sanctuary may:

     (1)  Operate for-profit business enterprises;

     (2)  Hold or lease property;

     (3)  Enter into contracts to support its mission; and

     (4)  Provide for on-site visitor access and accommodation as it deems appropriate to support its mission.

     (d)  The Hawaii conservation sanctuary may operate within an agricultural district.  The operations of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary authorized pursuant to subsections (b) and (c) shall be deemed permissible uses pursuant to sections 205-2(d) and 205-4.5.

     (e)  The qualifying standards and conditions related to the receipt of funds contained in chapter 42F shall not apply to state funds received by the Hawaii conservation sanctuary; provided that if the Hawaii conservation sanctuary in turn contracts with a recipient or provider, then the qualifying standards, conditions, and other provisions of chapter 42F shall apply to the recipient or provider and the contract.

     (f)  Two seats on the governing board of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary shall be reserved for representatives of the State.

     (g)  The department shall assist the Hawaii conservation sanctuary with identifying and accessing appropriate land to support its mission."

     SECTION 3.  Section 205-2, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by amending subsection (d) to read as follows:

     "(d)  Agricultural districts shall include:

     (1)  Activities or uses as characterized by the cultivation of crops, crops for bioenergy, orchards, forage, and forestry;

     (2)  Farming activities or uses related to animal husbandry and game and fish propagation;

     (3)  Aquaculture, which means the production of aquatic plant and animal life within ponds and other bodies of water;

     (4)  Wind-generated energy production for public, private, and commercial use;

     (5)  Biofuel production, as described in section 205‑4.5(a)(16), for public, private, and commercial use;

     (6)  Solar energy facilities; provided that:

          (A)  This paragraph shall apply only to land with soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating class B, C, D, or E; and

          (B)  Solar energy facilities placed within land with soil classified as overall productivity rating class B or C shall not occupy more than ten per cent of the acreage of the parcel, or twenty acres of land, whichever is lesser, unless a special use permit is granted pursuant to section 205-6;

     (7)  Bona fide agricultural services and uses that support the agricultural activities of the fee or leasehold owner of the property and accessory to any of the above activities, regardless of whether conducted on the same premises as the agricultural activities to which they are accessory, including farm dwellings as defined in section 205-4.5(a)(4), employee housing, farm buildings, mills, storage facilities, processing facilities, photovoltaic, biogas, and other small‑scale renewable energy systems producing energy solely for use in the agricultural activities of the fee or leasehold owner of the property, agricultural‑energy facilities as defined in section 205-4.5(a)(17), vehicle and equipment storage areas, and plantation community subdivisions as defined in section 205‑4.5(a)(12);

     (8)  Wind machines and wind farms;

     (9)  Small-scale meteorological, air quality, noise, and other scientific and environmental data collection and monitoring facilities occupying less than one-half acre of land; provided that these facilities shall not be used as or equipped for use as living quarters or dwellings;

    (10)  Agricultural parks;

    (11)  Agricultural tourism conducted on a working farm, or a farming operation as defined in section 165-2, for the enjoyment, education, or involvement of visitors; provided that the agricultural tourism activity is accessory and secondary to the principal agricultural use and does not interfere with surrounding farm operations; provided further that this paragraph shall apply only to a county that has adopted ordinances regulating agricultural tourism under section 205-5;

    (12)  Agricultural tourism activities, including overnight accommodations of twenty-one days or less, for any one stay within a county; provided that this paragraph shall apply only to a county that includes at least three islands and has adopted ordinances regulating agricultural tourism activities pursuant to section 205-5; provided further that the agricultural tourism activities coexist with a bona fide agricultural activity.  For the purposes of this paragraph, "bona fide agricultural activity" means a farming operation as defined in section 165-2;

   (13)   Open area recreational facilities;

   (14)   Geothermal resources exploration and geothermal resources development, as defined under section 182-1;

   (15)   Agricultural-based commercial operations registered in Hawaii, including:

          (A)  A roadside stand that is not an enclosed structure, owned and operated by a producer for the display and sale of agricultural products grown in Hawaii and value-added products that were produced using agricultural products grown in Hawaii;

          (B)  Retail activities in an enclosed structure owned and operated by a producer for the display and sale of agricultural products grown in Hawaii, value-added products that were produced using agricultural products grown in Hawaii, logo items related to the producer's agricultural operations, and other food items;

          (C)  A retail food establishment owned and operated by a producer and permitted under chapter 11-50, Hawaii administrative rules, that prepares and serves food at retail using products grown in Hawaii and value-added products that were produced using agricultural products grown in Hawaii;

          (D)  A farmers' market, which is an outdoor market limited to producers selling agricultural products grown in Hawaii and value-added products that were produced using agricultural products grown in Hawaii; and

          (E)  A food hub, which is a facility that may contain a commercial kitchen and provides for the storage, processing, distribution, and sale of agricultural products grown in Hawaii and value-added products that were produced using agricultural products grown in Hawaii.

          The owner of an agricultural-based commercial operation shall certify, upon request of an officer or agent charged with enforcement of this chapter under section 205-12, that the agricultural products displayed or sold by the operation meet the requirements of this paragraph;

   (16)   Hydroelectric facilities as described in section 205‑4.5(a)(23); [and]

   (17)   Composting and co-composting operations; provided that operations that process their own green waste and do not require permits from the department of health shall use the finished composting product only on the operation's own premises to minimize the potential spread of invasive species[.]; and

   (18)   Operations of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary authorized pursuant to section 195D-   .

Agricultural districts shall not include golf courses and golf driving ranges, except as provided in section 205-4.5(d).  No landfill unit, as defined in section 342H-52, shall be located on land within the agricultural district that has soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating class A in a county with a population greater than five hundred thousand.  Agricultural districts include areas that are not used for, or that are not suited to, agricultural and ancillary activities by reason of topography, soils, and other related characteristics."

     SECTION 4.  Section 205-4.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:

     "(a)  Within the agricultural district, all lands with soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating class A or B and for solar energy facilities, class B or C, shall be restricted to the following permitted uses:

     (1)  Cultivation of crops, including crops for bioenergy, flowers, vegetables, foliage, fruits, forage, and timber;

     (2)  Game and fish propagation;

     (3)  Raising of livestock, including poultry, bees, fish, or other animal or aquatic life that are propagated for economic or personal use;

     (4)  Farm dwellings, employee housing, farm buildings, or activities or uses related to farming and animal husbandry.  For the purposes of this paragraph, "farm dwelling" means a single-family dwelling located on and accessory to a farm, including clusters of single‑family farm dwellings permitted within agricultural parks developed by the State, or where agricultural activity provides income to the family occupying the dwelling;

     (5)  Public institutions and buildings that are necessary for agricultural practices;

     (6)  Public and private open area types of recreational uses, including day camps, picnic grounds, parks, and riding stables, but not including dragstrips, airports, drive-in theaters, golf courses, golf driving ranges, country clubs, and overnight camps; provided that overnight camps in operation before January 1, 1961, may be approved by special permit;

     (7)  Public, private, and quasi-public utility lines and roadways, transformer stations, communications equipment buildings, solid waste transfer stations, major water storage tanks, and appurtenant small buildings such as booster pumping stations, but not including offices or yards for equipment, material, vehicle storage, repair or maintenance, treatment plants, corporation yards, or other similar structures;

     (8)  Retention, restoration, rehabilitation, or improvement of buildings or sites of historic or scenic interest;

     (9)  Agricultural-based commercial operations as described in section 205-2(d)(15);

    (10)  Buildings and uses, including mills, storage, and processing facilities, maintenance facilities, photovoltaic, biogas, and other small-scale renewable energy systems producing energy solely for use in the agricultural activities of the fee or leasehold owner of the property, and vehicle and equipment storage areas that are normally considered directly accessory to the above-mentioned uses and are permitted under section 205-2(d);

    (11)  Agricultural parks;

    (12)  Plantation community subdivisions, which as used in this chapter means an established subdivision or cluster of employee housing, community buildings, and agricultural support buildings on land currently or formerly owned, leased, or operated by a sugar or pineapple plantation; provided that the existing structures may be used or rehabilitated for use, and new employee housing and agricultural support buildings may be allowed on land within the subdivision as follows:

          (A)  The employee housing is occupied by employees or former employees of the plantation who have a property interest in the land;

          (B)  The employee housing units not owned by their occupants shall be rented or leased at affordable rates for agricultural workers; or

          (C)  The agricultural support buildings shall be rented or leased to agricultural business operators or agricultural support services;

    (13)  Agricultural tourism conducted on a working farm, or a farming operation as defined in section 165-2, for the enjoyment, education, or involvement of visitors; provided that the agricultural tourism activity is accessory and secondary to the principal agricultural use and does not interfere with surrounding farm operations; provided further that this paragraph shall apply only to a county that has adopted ordinances regulating agricultural tourism under section 205-5;

    (14)  Agricultural tourism activities, including overnight accommodations of twenty-one days or less, for any one stay within a county; provided that this paragraph shall apply only to a county that includes at least three islands and has adopted ordinances regulating agricultural tourism activities pursuant to section 205-5; provided further that the agricultural tourism activities coexist with a bona fide agricultural activity.  For the purposes of this paragraph, "bona fide agricultural activity" means a farming operation as defined in section 165-2;

    (15)  Wind energy facilities, including the appurtenances associated with the production and transmission of wind generated energy; provided that the wind energy facilities and appurtenances are compatible with agriculture uses and cause minimal adverse impact on agricultural land;

    (16)  Biofuel processing facilities, including the appurtenances associated with the production and refining of biofuels that is normally considered directly accessory and secondary to the growing of the energy feedstock; provided that biofuel processing facilities and appurtenances do not adversely impact agricultural land and other agricultural uses in the vicinity.

               For the purposes of this paragraph:

               "Appurtenances" means operational infrastructure of the appropriate type and scale for economic commercial storage and distribution, and other similar handling of feedstock, fuels, and other products of biofuel processing facilities.

               "Biofuel processing facility" means a facility that produces liquid or gaseous fuels from organic sources such as biomass crops, agricultural residues, and oil crops, including palm, canola, soybean, and waste cooking oils; grease; food wastes; and animal residues and wastes that can be used to generate energy;

    (17)  Agricultural-energy facilities, including appurtenances necessary for an agricultural-energy enterprise; provided that the primary activity of the agricultural-energy enterprise is agricultural activity.  To be considered the primary activity of an agricultural-energy enterprise, the total acreage devoted to agricultural activity shall be no less than ninety per cent of the total acreage of the agricultural-energy enterprise.  The agricultural-energy facility shall be limited to lands owned, leased, licensed, or operated by the entity conducting the agricultural activity.

               As used in this paragraph:

               "Agricultural activity" means any activity described in paragraphs (1) to (3) of this subsection.

               "Agricultural-energy enterprise" means an enterprise that integrally incorporates an agricultural activity with an agricultural-energy facility.

               "Agricultural-energy facility" means a facility that generates, stores, or distributes renewable energy as defined in section 269-91 or renewable fuel including electrical or thermal energy or liquid or gaseous fuels from products of agricultural activities from agricultural lands located in the State.

               "Appurtenances" means operational infrastructure of the appropriate type and scale for the economic commercial generation, storage, distribution, and other similar handling of energy, including equipment, feedstock, fuels, and other products of agricultural-energy facilities;

    (18)  Construction and operation of wireless communication antennas, including small wireless facilities; provided that, for the purposes of this paragraph, "wireless communication antenna" means communications equipment that is either freestanding or placed upon or attached to an already existing structure and that transmits and receives electromagnetic radio signals used in the provision of all types of wireless communications services; provided further that "small wireless facilities" shall have the same meaning as in section 206N-2; provided further that nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to permit the construction of any new structure that is not deemed a permitted use under this subsection;

    (19)  Agricultural education programs conducted on a farming operation as defined in section 165-2, for the education and participation of the general public; provided that the agricultural education programs are accessory and secondary to the principal agricultural use of the parcels or lots on which the agricultural education programs are to occur and do not interfere with surrounding farm operations.  For the purposes of this paragraph, "agricultural education programs" means activities or events designed to promote knowledge and understanding of agricultural activities and practices conducted on a farming operation as defined in section 165-2;

    (20)  Solar energy facilities that do not occupy more than ten per cent of the acreage of the parcel, or twenty acres of land, whichever is lesser or for which a special use permit is granted pursuant to section 205‑6; provided that this use shall not be permitted on lands with soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating class A;

    (21)  Solar energy facilities on lands with soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating B or C for which a special use permit is granted pursuant to section 205-6; provided that:

          (A)  The area occupied by the solar energy facilities is also made available for compatible agricultural activities at a lease rate that is at least fifty per cent below the fair market rent for comparable properties;

          (B)  Proof of financial security to decommission the facility is provided to the satisfaction of the appropriate county planning commission before the date of commencement of commercial generation; and

          (C)  Solar energy facilities shall be decommissioned at the owner's expense according to the following requirements:

               (i)  Removal of all equipment related to the solar energy facility within twelve months of the conclusion of operation or useful life; and

              (ii)  Restoration of the disturbed earth to substantially the same physical condition as existed before the development of the solar energy facility.

          For the purposes of this paragraph, "agricultural activities" means the activities described in paragraphs (1) to (3);

    (22)  Geothermal resources exploration and geothermal resources development, as defined under section 182-1;

    (23)  Hydroelectric facilities, including the appurtenances associated with the production and transmission of hydroelectric energy, subject to section 205-2; provided that the hydroelectric facilities and their appurtenances:

          (A)  Shall consist of a small hydropower facility as defined by the United States Department of Energy, including:

               (i)  Impoundment facilities using a dam to store water in a reservoir;

              (ii)  A diversion or run-of-river facility that channels a portion of a river through a canal or channel; and

             (iii)  Pumped storage facilities that store energy by pumping water uphill to a reservoir at higher elevation from a reservoir at a lower elevation to be released to turn a turbine to generate electricity;

          (B)  Comply with the state water code, chapter 174C;

          (C)  Shall, if over five hundred kilowatts in hydroelectric generating capacity, have the approval of the commission on water resource management, including a new instream flow standard established for any new hydroelectric facility; and

          (D)  Do not impact or impede the use of agricultural land or the availability of surface or ground water for all uses on all parcels that are served by the ground water sources or streams for which hydroelectric facilities are considered; [or]

    (24)  Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, composting and co-composting operations; provided that operations that process their own green waste and do not require permits from the department of health shall use the finished composting product only on the operation's own premises to minimize the potential spread of invasive species[.]; or

    (25)  Operations of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary authorized pursuant to section 195D-   ."

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

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

Report Title:

DLNR; Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary; Endangered Species; Wildlife; Conservation

Description:

Recognizes the Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary as a nonprofit entity established pursuant to Senate Resolution 94, Senate Draft 1, Regular Session of 2026, to protect and expand populations of endangered species and other wildlife in the State.  (CD1)

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 CONSERVATION.

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

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that numerous species in the State are on the brink of extinction, in particular many indigenous birds found nowhere else in the world.  While the State has made progress in addressing the myriad causes contributing to extinction, the legislature finds that existing efforts must be supplemented to prevent further loss of biodiversity.

     The legislature recognizes that Zealandia (Te Mara a Tane) is a pioneering conservation sanctuary in Wellington, New Zealand, best known for proving how dramatically nature can rebound with proper protection.  Built as a fully fenced, predator-excluded sanctuary, Zealandia creates a safe haven where native birds, reptiles, and plants thrive and recover in near-natural habitats, safe from invasive predators and vectors.  This model has not only enabled the reintroduction and rapid growth of iconic native species that were once on the brink of extinction, but it has also transformed the valley into a living example of ecosystem restoration in a modern city.

     Just as importantly, Zealandia's impact extends beyond its fence line:  thriving populations disperse outward into surrounding neighborhoods and green spaces, helping native wildlife return to the wider region.  Zealandia also facilitates community engagement by welcoming volunteers, residents, researchers, and visitors, and serving as a hub for school programs and hands-on learning.  Its success in engaging the community and visitors has helped Zealandia become largely self‑funded through admissions, memberships, tours, and experiences that reinvest directly into conservation.

     The legislature also recognizes that successful sanctuary models in the United States generate substantial revenue for conservation efforts.  They serve as educational centers for local schools and visitor destinations and provide critical habitats for endangered and other species.  The State's climate and environment provide more diverse habitats for wildlife than found elsewhere in the continental United States.  With appropriate considerations and protections to ensure no adverse impact on the state environment, the State can improve the living conditions of rescued animals from other states and generate significant revenue for state conservation efforts.

     The legislature believes that the State is uniquely positioned to become a national center for endangered species research, education, and protection.  Establishing sanctuaries in the State like those that have proven successful elsewhere can advance the State's position as the premier place for endangered species work and conservation and create pathways for local education, jobs, investment, and research.

     The legislature also believes that successful nonprofit models for the establishment and operation of specialized models of endangered species sanctuaries are an efficient and preferable way to supplement broader government-run efforts and programs.  The nonprofit models provide more flexibility and adaptability for management, operations, innovation, and community engagement.

     The legislature further finds that the establishment of a nonprofit entity to create and manage endangered species sanctuaries and exempting appropriations of state funds to the entity from the requirements of chapter 42F, Hawaii Revised Statutes, complies with the public purpose requirements of article VII, section 4, of the Hawaii State Constitution.

     Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to establish a nonprofit entity to collaborate with the State to create and manage endangered species sanctuaries.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 195D, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

     "§195D-     Hawaii conservation sanctuary; established.  (a)  There shall be established the Hawaii conservation sanctuary, which shall be a nonprofit organization to enhance and support the work of conservation and endangered species and wildlife preservation, and to oversee related and ancillary programs.

     (b)  The Hawaii conservation sanctuary shall protect and expand populations of endangered species and other native wildlife within the State by developing and operating conservation sanctuaries in the State, including:

     (1)  One around a recreational body of water; and

     (2)  One in an area appropriate for the protection of native birds.

     (c)  The Hawaii conservation sanctuary may:

     (1)  Operate for-profit business enterprises;

     (2)  Hold or lease property; and

     (3)  Enter into contracts to support its mission.

     (d)  The Hawaii conservation sanctuary may operate within an agricultural district; provided that the operations of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary authorized pursuant to subsection (c) shall be deemed permissible uses pursuant to sections 205-2(d) and 205-4.5.

     (e)  The qualifying standards and conditions related to the receipt of funds contained in chapter 42F shall not apply to state funds received by the Hawaii conservation sanctuary; provided that if the Hawaii conservation sanctuary in turn contracts with a recipient or provider, then the qualifying standards, conditions, and other provisions of chapter 42F shall apply to the recipient or provider and the contract.

     (f)  Two seats on the governing board of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary shall be reserved for representatives of the State.

     (g)  The department shall assist the Hawaii conservation sanctuary with identifying and accessing appropriate land to support its mission."

     SECTION 3.  Section 205-2, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by amending subsection (d) to read as follows:

     "(d)  Agricultural districts shall include:

     (1)  Activities or uses as characterized by the cultivation of crops, crops for bioenergy, orchards, forage, and forestry;

     (2)  Farming activities or uses related to animal husbandry and game and fish propagation;

     (3)  Aquaculture, which means the production of aquatic plant and animal life within ponds and other bodies of water;

     (4)  Wind-generated energy production for public, private, and commercial use;

     (5)  Biofuel production, as described in section 205-4.5(a)(16), for public, private, and commercial use;

     (6)  Solar energy facilities; provided that:

          (A)  This paragraph shall apply only to land with soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating class B, C, D, or E; and

          (B)  Solar energy facilities placed within land with soil classified as overall productivity rating class B or C shall not occupy more than ten per cent of the acreage of the parcel, or twenty acres of land, whichever is lesser, unless a special use permit is granted pursuant to section 205-6;

     (7)  Bona fide agricultural services and uses that support the agricultural activities of the fee or leasehold owner of the property and accessory to any of the above activities, regardless of whether conducted on the same premises as the agricultural activities to which they are accessory, including farm dwellings as defined in section 205-4.5(a)(4), employee housing, farm buildings, mills, storage facilities, processing facilities, photovoltaic, biogas, and other small-scale renewable energy systems producing energy solely for use in the agricultural activities of the fee or leasehold owner of the property, agricultural-energy facilities as defined in section 205-4.5(a)(17), vehicle and equipment storage areas, and plantation community subdivisions as defined in section 205-4.5(a)(12);

     (8)  Wind machines and wind farms;

     (9)  Small-scale meteorological, air quality, noise, and other scientific and environmental data collection and monitoring facilities occupying less than one-half acre of land; provided that these facilities shall not be used as or equipped for use as living quarters or dwellings;

    (10)  Agricultural parks;

    (11)  Agricultural tourism conducted on a working farm, or a farming operation as defined in section 165-2, for the enjoyment, education, or involvement of visitors; provided that the agricultural tourism activity is accessory and secondary to the principal agricultural use and does not interfere with surrounding farm operations; provided further that this paragraph shall apply only to a county that has adopted ordinances regulating agricultural tourism under section 205-5;

    (12)  Agricultural tourism activities, including overnight accommodations of twenty-one days or less, for any one stay within a county; provided that this paragraph shall apply only to a county that includes at least three islands and has adopted ordinances regulating agricultural tourism activities pursuant to section 205-5; provided further that the agricultural tourism activities coexist with a bona fide agricultural activity.  For the purposes of this paragraph, "bona fide agricultural activity" means a farming operation as defined in section 165-2;

   (13)   Open area recreational facilities;

   (14)   Geothermal resources exploration and geothermal resources development, as defined under section 182-1;

   (15)   Agricultural-based commercial operations registered in Hawaii, including:

          (A)  A roadside stand that is not an enclosed structure, owned and operated by a producer for the display and sale of agricultural products grown in Hawaii and value-added products that were produced using agricultural products grown in Hawaii;

          (B)  Retail activities in an enclosed structure owned and operated by a producer for the display and sale of agricultural products grown in Hawaii, value-added products that were produced using agricultural products grown in Hawaii, logo items related to the producer's agricultural operations, and other food items;

          (C)  A retail food establishment owned and operated by a producer and permitted under chapter 11-50, Hawaii administrative rules, that prepares and serves food at retail using products grown in Hawaii and value-added products that were produced using agricultural products grown in Hawaii;

          (D)  A farmers' market, which is an outdoor market limited to producers selling agricultural products grown in Hawaii and value-added products that were produced using agricultural products grown in Hawaii; and

          (E)  A food hub, which is a facility that may contain a commercial kitchen and provides for the storage, processing, distribution, and sale of agricultural products grown in Hawaii and value-added products that were produced using agricultural products grown in Hawaii.

          The owner of an agricultural-based commercial operation shall certify, upon request of an officer or agent charged with enforcement of this chapter under section 205-12, that the agricultural products displayed or sold by the operation meet the requirements of this paragraph;

   (16)   Hydroelectric facilities as described in section 205-4.5(a)(23); [and]

   (17)   Composting and co-composting operations; provided that operations that process their own green waste and do not require permits from the department of health shall use the finished composting product only on the operation's own premises to minimize the potential spread of invasive species[.]; and

   (18)   Operations of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary authorized pursuant to section 195D-   .

Agricultural districts shall not include golf courses and golf driving ranges, except as provided in section 205-4.5(d).  No landfill unit, as defined in section 342H-52, shall be located on land within the agricultural district that has soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating class A in a county with a population greater than five hundred thousand.  Agricultural districts include areas that are not used for, or that are not suited to, agricultural and ancillary activities by reason of topography, soils, and other related characteristics."

     SECTION 4.  Section 205-4.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:

     "(a)  Within the agricultural district, all lands with soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating class A or B and for solar energy facilities, class B or C, shall be restricted to the following permitted uses:

     (1)  Cultivation of crops, including crops for bioenergy, flowers, vegetables, foliage, fruits, forage, and timber;

     (2)  Game and fish propagation;

     (3)  Raising of livestock, including poultry, bees, fish, or other animal or aquatic life that are propagated for economic or personal use;

     (4)  Farm dwellings, employee housing, farm buildings, or activities or uses related to farming and animal husbandry.  For the purposes of this paragraph, "farm dwelling" means a single-family dwelling located on and accessory to a farm, including clusters of single‑family farm dwellings permitted within agricultural parks developed by the State, or where agricultural activity provides income to the family occupying the dwelling;

     (5)  Public institutions and buildings that are necessary for agricultural practices;

     (6)  Public and private open area types of recreational uses, including day camps, picnic grounds, parks, and riding stables, but not including dragstrips, airports, drive-in theaters, golf courses, golf driving ranges, country clubs, and overnight camps; provided that overnight camps in operation before January 1, 1961, may be approved by special permit;

     (7)  Public, private, and quasi-public utility lines and roadways, transformer stations, communications equipment buildings, solid waste transfer stations, major water storage tanks, and appurtenant small buildings such as booster pumping stations, but not including offices or yards for equipment, material, vehicle storage, repair or maintenance, treatment plants, corporation yards, or other similar structures;

     (8)  Retention, restoration, rehabilitation, or improvement of buildings or sites of historic or scenic interest;

     (9)  Agricultural-based commercial operations as described in section 205-2(d)(15);

    (10)  Buildings and uses, including mills, storage, and processing facilities, maintenance facilities, photovoltaic, biogas, and other small-scale renewable energy systems producing energy solely for use in the agricultural activities of the fee or leasehold owner of the property, and vehicle and equipment storage areas that are normally considered directly accessory to the above-mentioned uses and are permitted under section 205-2(d);

    (11)  Agricultural parks;

    (12)  Plantation community subdivisions, which as used in this chapter means an established subdivision or cluster of employee housing, community buildings, and agricultural support buildings on land currently or formerly owned, leased, or operated by a sugar or pineapple plantation; provided that the existing structures may be used or rehabilitated for use, and new employee housing and agricultural support buildings may be allowed on land within the subdivision as follows:

          (A)  The employee housing is occupied by employees or former employees of the plantation who have a property interest in the land;

          (B)  The employee housing units not owned by their occupants shall be rented or leased at affordable rates for agricultural workers; or

          (C)  The agricultural support buildings shall be rented or leased to agricultural business operators or agricultural support services;

    (13)  Agricultural tourism conducted on a working farm, or a farming operation as defined in section 165-2, for the enjoyment, education, or involvement of visitors; provided that the agricultural tourism activity is accessory and secondary to the principal agricultural use and does not interfere with surrounding farm operations; provided further that this paragraph shall apply only to a county that has adopted ordinances regulating agricultural tourism under section 205-5;

    (14)  Agricultural tourism activities, including overnight accommodations of twenty-one days or less, for any one stay within a county; provided that this paragraph shall apply only to a county that includes at least three islands and has adopted ordinances regulating agricultural tourism activities pursuant to section 205-5; provided further that the agricultural tourism activities coexist with a bona fide agricultural activity.  For the purposes of this paragraph, "bona fide agricultural activity" means a farming operation as defined in section 165-2;

    (15)  Wind energy facilities, including the appurtenances associated with the production and transmission of wind generated energy; provided that the wind energy facilities and appurtenances are compatible with agriculture uses and cause minimal adverse impact on agricultural land;

    (16)  Biofuel processing facilities, including the appurtenances associated with the production and refining of biofuels that is normally considered directly accessory and secondary to the growing of the energy feedstock; provided that biofuel processing facilities and appurtenances do not adversely impact agricultural land and other agricultural uses in the vicinity.

              For the purposes of this paragraph:

              "Appurtenances" means operational infrastructure of the appropriate type and scale for economic commercial storage and distribution, and other similar handling of feedstock, fuels, and other products of biofuel processing facilities.

              "Biofuel processing facility" means a facility that produces liquid or gaseous fuels from organic sources such as biomass crops, agricultural residues, and oil crops, including palm, canola, soybean, and waste cooking oils; grease; food wastes; and animal residues and wastes that can be used to generate energy;

    (17)  Agricultural-energy facilities, including appurtenances necessary for an agricultural-energy enterprise; provided that the primary activity of the agricultural-energy enterprise is agricultural activity.  To be considered the primary activity of an agricultural-energy enterprise, the total acreage devoted to agricultural activity shall be no less than ninety per cent of the total acreage of the agricultural-energy enterprise.  The agricultural-energy facility shall be limited to lands owned, leased, licensed, or operated by the entity conducting the agricultural activity.

              As used in this paragraph:

              "Agricultural activity" means any activity described in paragraphs (1) to (3) of this subsection.

              "Agricultural-energy enterprise" means an enterprise that integrally incorporates an agricultural activity with an agricultural-energy facility.

              "Agricultural-energy facility" means a facility that generates, stores, or distributes renewable energy as defined in section 269-91 or renewable fuel including electrical or thermal energy or liquid or gaseous fuels from products of agricultural activities from agricultural lands located in the State.

              "Appurtenances" means operational infrastructure of the appropriate type and scale for the economic commercial generation, storage, distribution, and other similar handling of energy, including equipment, feedstock, fuels, and other products of agricultural-energy facilities;

    (18)  Construction and operation of wireless communication antennas, including small wireless facilities; provided that, for the purposes of this paragraph, "wireless communication antenna" means communications equipment that is either freestanding or placed upon or attached to an already existing structure and that transmits and receives electromagnetic radio signals used in the provision of all types of wireless communications services; provided further that "small wireless facilities" shall have the same meaning as in section 206N-2; provided further that nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to permit the construction of any new structure that is not deemed a permitted use under this subsection;

    (19)  Agricultural education programs conducted on a farming operation as defined in section 165-2, for the education and participation of the general public; provided that the agricultural education programs are accessory and secondary to the principal agricultural use of the parcels or lots on which the agricultural education programs are to occur and do not interfere with surrounding farm operations.  For the purposes of this paragraph, "agricultural education programs" means activities or events designed to promote knowledge and understanding of agricultural activities and practices conducted on a farming operation as defined in section 165-2;

    (20)  Solar energy facilities that do not occupy more than ten per cent of the acreage of the parcel, or twenty acres of land, whichever is lesser or for which a special use permit is granted pursuant to section 205‑6; provided that this use shall not be permitted on lands with soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating class A;

    (21)  Solar energy facilities on lands with soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating B or C for which a special use permit is granted pursuant to section 205-6; provided that:

          (A)  The area occupied by the solar energy facilities is also made available for compatible agricultural activities at a lease rate that is at least fifty per cent below the fair market rent for comparable properties;

          (B)  Proof of financial security to decommission the facility is provided to the satisfaction of the appropriate county planning commission before the date of commencement of commercial generation; and

          (C)  Solar energy facilities shall be decommissioned at the owner's expense according to the following requirements:

              (i)  Removal of all equipment related to the solar energy facility within twelve months of the conclusion of operation or useful life; and

             (ii)  Restoration of the disturbed earth to substantially the same physical condition as existed before the development of the solar energy facility.

          For the purposes of this paragraph, "agricultural activities" means the activities described in paragraphs (1) to (3);

    (22)  Geothermal resources exploration and geothermal resources development, as defined under section 182-1;

    (23)  Hydroelectric facilities, including the appurtenances associated with the production and transmission of hydroelectric energy, subject to section 205-2; provided that the hydroelectric facilities and their appurtenances:

          (A)  Shall consist of a small hydropower facility as defined by the United States Department of Energy, including:

              (i)  Impoundment facilities using a dam to store water in a reservoir;

             (ii)  A diversion or run-of-river facility that channels a portion of a river through a canal or channel; and

            (iii)  Pumped storage facilities that store energy by pumping water uphill to a reservoir at higher elevation from a reservoir at a lower elevation to be released to turn a turbine to generate electricity;

          (B)  Comply with the state water code, chapter 174C;

          (C)  Shall, if over five hundred kilowatts in hydroelectric generating capacity, have the approval of the commission on water resource management, including a new instream flow standard established for any new hydroelectric facility; and

          (D)  Do not impact or impede the use of agricultural land or the availability of surface or ground water for all uses on all parcels that are served by the ground water sources or streams for which hydroelectric facilities are considered; [or]

    (24)  Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, composting and co-composting operations; provided that operations that process their own green waste and do not require permits from the department of health shall use the finished composting product only on the operation's own premises to minimize the potential spread of invasive species[.]; or

    (25)  Operations of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary authorized pursuant to section 195D-   ."

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

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

Report Title:

DLNR; Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary; Endangered Species; Native Wildlife; Conservation

Description:

Establishes the Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary as a nonprofit entity to protect and expand populations of endangered species and other native wildlife in the State.  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 CONSERVATION.

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

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that numerous species in the State are on the brink of extinction, in particular many indigenous birds found nowhere else in the world.  While the State has made progress in addressing the myriad causes contributing to extinction, the legislature finds that existing efforts must be supplemented to prevent further loss of biodiversity.

     The legislature recognizes that Zealandia (Te Mara a Tane) is a pioneering conservation sanctuary in Wellington, New Zealand, best known for proving how dramatically nature can rebound with proper protection.  Built as a fully fenced, predator-excluded sanctuary, Zealandia creates a safe haven where native birds, reptiles, and plants thrive and recover in near-natural habitats, safe from invasive predators and vectors.  This model has not only enabled the reintroduction and rapid growth of iconic native species that were once on the brink of extinction, but it has also transformed the valley into a living example of ecosystem restoration in a modern city.

     Just as importantly, Zealandia's impact extends beyond its fence line:  thriving populations disperse outward into surrounding neighborhoods and green spaces, helping native wildlife return to the wider region.  Zealandia also facilitates community engagement by welcoming volunteers, residents, researchers, and visitors, and serving as a hub for school programs and hands-on learning.  Its success in engaging community and visitors has helped Zealandia become largely self‑funded through admissions, memberships, tours, and experiences that reinvest directly into conservation.

     The legislature also recognizes that successful sanctuary models in the United States generate substantial revenue for conservation efforts.  They serve as educational centers for local schools, destinations for visitors, and provide critical habitat for endangered and other species.  The State's climate and environment provide more diverse habitats for wildlife than found elsewhere in the continental United States.  With appropriate considerations and protections to ensure no adverse impact on the state environment, the State can improve the living conditions of rescued animals from other states and generate significant revenue for state conservation efforts.

     The legislature believes that the State is uniquely positioned to become a national center for endangered species research, education, and protection.  Establishing sanctuaries in the State like those that have proven successful elsewhere can advance the State's position as the premier place for endangered species work and conservation and create pathways for local education, jobs, investment, and research.

     The legislature also believes that successful nonprofit models for the establishment and operation of specialized models of endangered species sanctuaries are an efficient and preferable way to supplement broader government-run efforts and programs.  The nonprofit models provide more flexibility and adaptability for management, operations, innovation, and community engagement.

     Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to establish a nonprofit entity to collaborate with the State to create and manage endangered species sanctuaries.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 195D, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

     "§195D-     Hawaii conservation sanctuary; established.  (a)  There shall be established the Hawaii conservation sanctuary, which shall be a nonprofit organization to enhance and support the work of conservation and endangered species and wildlife preservation, and to oversee related and ancillary programs.

     (b)  The Hawaii conservation sanctuary shall protect and expand populations of endangered species and other wildlife from within and outside the State by developing and operating conservation sanctuaries in the State, including:

     (1)  One around a recreational body of water;

     (2)  One in an area appropriate for the protection of native birds; and

     (3)  One in an area appropriate for the protection of rescue animals and larger species of wildlife.

     (c)  The Hawaii conservation sanctuary may:

     (1)  Operate for-profit business enterprises;

     (2)  Hold or lease property; and

     (3)  Enter into contracts to support its mission.

     (d)  Hawaii conservation sanctuary may operate within an agricultural district; provided that the operations of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary authorized pursuant to (c) shall be deemed permissible uses pursuant to section 205-4.5.

     (e)  The qualifying standards and conditions related to the receipt of funds contained in chapter 42F shall not apply to funds received by the Hawaii conservation sanctuary; provided that if the Hawaii conservation sanctuary in turn contracts with a recipient or provider, then the qualifying standards, conditions, and other provisions of chapter 42F shall apply to the recipient or provider and the contract.

     (f)  Two seats on the governing board of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary shall be reserved for representatives of the State of Hawaii.

     (g)  The department shall assist the Hawaii conservation sanctuary with identifying and accessing appropriate land to support its mission."

     SECTION 3.  Section 205-4.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:

     "(a)  Within the agricultural district, all lands with soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating class A or B and for solar energy facilities, class B or C, shall be restricted to the following permitted uses:

     (1)  Cultivation of crops, including crops for bioenergy, flowers, vegetables, foliage, fruits, forage, and timber;

     (2)  Game and fish propagation;

     (3)  Raising of livestock, including poultry, bees, fish, or other animal or aquatic life that are propagated for economic or personal use;

     (4)  Farm dwellings, employee housing, farm buildings, or activities or uses related to farming and animal husbandry.  For the purposes of this paragraph, "farm dwelling" means a single-family dwelling located on and accessory to a farm, including clusters of single‑family farm dwellings permitted within agricultural parks developed by the State, or where agricultural activity provides income to the family occupying the dwelling;

     (5)  Public institutions and buildings that are necessary for agricultural practices;

     (6)  Public and private open area types of recreational uses, including day camps, picnic grounds, parks, and riding stables, but not including dragstrips, airports, drive-in theaters, golf courses, golf driving ranges, country clubs, and overnight camps; provided that overnight camps in operation before January 1, 1961, may be approved by special permit;

     (7)  Public, private, and quasi-public utility lines and roadways, transformer stations, communications equipment buildings, solid waste transfer stations, major water storage tanks, and appurtenant small buildings such as booster pumping stations, but not including offices or yards for equipment, material, vehicle storage, repair or maintenance, treatment plants, corporation yards, or other similar structures;

     (8)  Retention, restoration, rehabilitation, or improvement of buildings or sites of historic or scenic interest;

     (9)  Agricultural-based commercial operations as described in section 205-2(d)(15);

    (10)  Buildings and uses, including mills, storage, and processing facilities, maintenance facilities, photovoltaic, biogas, and other small-scale renewable energy systems producing energy solely for use in the agricultural activities of the fee or leasehold owner of the property, and vehicle and equipment storage areas that are normally considered directly accessory to the above-mentioned uses and are permitted under section 205-2(d);

    (11)  Agricultural parks;

    (12)  Plantation community subdivisions, which as used in this chapter means an established subdivision or cluster of employee housing, community buildings, and agricultural support buildings on land currently or formerly owned, leased, or operated by a sugar or pineapple plantation; provided that the existing structures may be used or rehabilitated for use, and new employee housing and agricultural support buildings may be allowed on land within the subdivision as follows:

          (A)  The employee housing is occupied by employees or former employees of the plantation who have a property interest in the land;

          (B)  The employee housing units not owned by their occupants shall be rented or leased at affordable rates for agricultural workers; or

          (C)  The agricultural support buildings shall be rented or leased to agricultural business operators or agricultural support services;

    (13)  Agricultural tourism conducted on a working farm, or a farming operation as defined in section 165-2, for the enjoyment, education, or involvement of visitors; provided that the agricultural tourism activity is accessory and secondary to the principal agricultural use and does not interfere with surrounding farm operations; provided further that this paragraph shall apply only to a county that has adopted ordinances regulating agricultural tourism under section 205-5;

    (14)  Agricultural tourism activities, including overnight accommodations of twenty-one days or less, for any one stay within a county; provided that this paragraph shall apply only to a county that includes at least three islands and has adopted ordinances regulating agricultural tourism activities pursuant to section 205-5; provided further that the agricultural tourism activities coexist with a bona fide agricultural activity.  For the purposes of this paragraph, "bona fide agricultural activity" means a farming operation as defined in section 165-2;

    (15)  Wind energy facilities, including the appurtenances associated with the production and transmission of wind generated energy; provided that the wind energy facilities and appurtenances are compatible with agriculture uses and cause minimal adverse impact on agricultural land;

    (16)  Biofuel processing facilities, including the appurtenances associated with the production and refining of biofuels that is normally considered directly accessory and secondary to the growing of the energy feedstock; provided that biofuel processing facilities and appurtenances do not adversely impact agricultural land and other agricultural uses in the vicinity.

               For the purposes of this paragraph:

               "Appurtenances" means operational infrastructure of the appropriate type and scale for economic commercial storage and distribution, and other similar handling of feedstock, fuels, and other products of biofuel processing facilities.

               "Biofuel processing facility" means a facility that produces liquid or gaseous fuels from organic sources such as biomass crops, agricultural residues, and oil crops, including palm, canola, soybean, and waste cooking oils; grease; food wastes; and animal residues and wastes that can be used to generate energy;

    (17)  Agricultural-energy facilities, including appurtenances necessary for an agricultural-energy enterprise; provided that the primary activity of the agricultural-energy enterprise is agricultural activity.  To be considered the primary activity of an agricultural-energy enterprise, the total acreage devoted to agricultural activity shall be no less than ninety per cent of the total acreage of the agricultural-energy enterprise.  The agricultural-energy facility shall be limited to lands owned, leased, licensed, or operated by the entity conducting the agricultural activity.

               As used in this paragraph:

               "Agricultural activity" means any activity described in paragraphs (1) to (3) of this subsection.

               "Agricultural-energy enterprise" means an enterprise that integrally incorporates an agricultural activity with an agricultural-energy facility.

               "Agricultural-energy facility" means a facility that generates, stores, or distributes renewable energy as defined in section 269-91 or renewable fuel including electrical or thermal energy or liquid or gaseous fuels from products of agricultural activities from agricultural lands located in the State.

               "Appurtenances" means operational infrastructure of the appropriate type and scale for the economic commercial generation, storage, distribution, and other similar handling of energy, including equipment, feedstock, fuels, and other products of agricultural-energy facilities;

    (18)  Construction and operation of wireless communication antennas, including small wireless facilities; provided that, for the purposes of this paragraph, "wireless communication antenna" means communications equipment that is either freestanding or placed upon or attached to an already existing structure and that transmits and receives electromagnetic radio signals used in the provision of all types of wireless communications services; provided further that "small wireless facilities" shall have the same meaning as in section 206N-2; provided further that nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to permit the construction of any new structure that is not deemed a permitted use under this subsection;

    (19)  Agricultural education programs conducted on a farming operation as defined in section 165-2, for the education and participation of the general public; provided that the agricultural education programs are accessory and secondary to the principal agricultural use of the parcels or lots on which the agricultural education programs are to occur and do not interfere with surrounding farm operations.  For the purposes of this paragraph, "agricultural education programs" means activities or events designed to promote knowledge and understanding of agricultural activities and practices conducted on a farming operation as defined in section 165-2;

    (20)  Solar energy facilities that do not occupy more than ten per cent of the acreage of the parcel, or twenty acres of land, whichever is lesser or for which a special use permit is granted pursuant to section 205‑6; provided that this use shall not be permitted on lands with soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating class A;

    (21)  Solar energy facilities on lands with soil classified by the land study bureau's detailed land classification as overall (master) productivity rating B or C for which a special use permit is granted pursuant to section 205-6; provided that:

          (A)  The area occupied by the solar energy facilities is also made available for compatible agricultural activities at a lease rate that is at least fifty per cent below the fair market rent for comparable properties;

          (B)  Proof of financial security to decommission the facility is provided to the satisfaction of the appropriate county planning commission before the date of commencement of commercial generation; and

          (C)  Solar energy facilities shall be decommissioned at the owner's expense according to the following requirements:

               (i)  Removal of all equipment related to the solar energy facility within twelve months of the conclusion of operation or useful life; and

              (ii)  Restoration of the disturbed earth to substantially the same physical condition as existed before the development of the solar energy facility.

          For the purposes of this paragraph, "agricultural activities" means the activities described in paragraphs (1) to (3);

    (22)  Geothermal resources exploration and geothermal resources development, as defined under section 182-1;

    (23)  Hydroelectric facilities, including the appurtenances associated with the production and transmission of hydroelectric energy, subject to section 205-2; provided that the hydroelectric facilities and their appurtenances:

          (A)  Shall consist of a small hydropower facility as defined by the United States Department of Energy, including:

               (i)  Impoundment facilities using a dam to store water in a reservoir;

              (ii)  A diversion or run-of-river facility that channels a portion of a river through a canal or channel; and

             (iii)  Pumped storage facilities that store energy by pumping water uphill to a reservoir at higher elevation from a reservoir at a lower elevation to be released to turn a turbine to generate electricity;

          (B)  Comply with the state water code, chapter 174C;

          (C)  Shall, if over five hundred kilowatts in hydroelectric generating capacity, have the approval of the commission on water resource management, including a new instream flow standard established for any new hydroelectric facility; and

          (D)  Do not impact or impede the use of agricultural land or the availability of surface or ground water for all uses on all parcels that are served by the ground water sources or streams for which hydroelectric facilities are considered; [or]

    (24)  Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, composting and co-composting operations; provided that operations that process their own green waste and do not require permits from the department of health shall use the finished composting product only on the operation's own premises to minimize the potential spread of invasive species[.]; or

    (25)  Operations of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary authorized pursuant to 195D-   (c)."

     SECTION 4.  Statutory material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken.  New statutory material is underscored.

     SECTION 5.  This Act shall take effect upon July 1, 2050.

Report Title:

DLNR; Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary; Endangered Species; Wildlife; Conservation

Description:

Establishes the Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary to protect and expand the populations of endangered species and other wildlife in the State.  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 CONSERVATION.

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

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that numerous species in the State are on the brink of extinction, in particular many indigenous birds found nowhere else in the world.  While the State has made progress in addressing the myriad causes contributing to extinction, the legislature finds that existing efforts must be supplemented to prevent further loss of biodiversity.

     The legislature recognizes that Zealandia (Te Mara a Tane) is a pioneering conservation sanctuary in Wellington, New Zealand, best known for proving how dramatically nature can rebound with proper protection.  Built as a fully fenced, predator-excluded sanctuary, Zealandia creates a safe haven where native birds, reptiles, and plants thrive and recover in near-natural habitats, safe from invasive predators and vectors.  This model has not only enabled the reintroduction and rapid growth of iconic native species that were once on the brink of extinction, but it has also transformed the valley into a living example of ecosystem restoration in a modern city.

     Just as importantly, Zealandia's impact extends beyond its fence line:  thriving populations disperse outward into surrounding neighborhoods and green spaces, helping native wildlife return to the wider region.  Zealandia also facilitates community engagement by welcoming volunteers, residents, researchers, and visitors, and serving as a hub for school programs and hands-on learning.  Its success in engaging community and visitors has helped Zealandia become largely self‑funded through admissions, memberships, tours, and experiences that reinvest directly into conservation.

     The legislature also recognizes that successful sanctuary models in the United States generate substantial revenue for conservation efforts.  They serve as educational centers for local schools, destinations for visitors, and provide critical habitat for endangered and other species.  The State's climate and environment provide more diverse habitats for wildlife than found elsewhere in the continental United States.  With appropriate considerations and protections to ensure no adverse impact on the state environment, the State can improve the living conditions of rescued animals from other states and generate significant revenue for state conservation efforts.

     The legislature believes that the State is uniquely positioned to become a national center for endangered species research, education, and protection.  Establishing sanctuaries in the State like those that have proven successful elsewhere can advance the State's position as the premier place for endangered species work and conservation and create pathways for local education, jobs, investment, and research.

     The legislature also believes that successful nonprofit models for the establishment and operation of endangered species sanctuaries are preferable to a government‑run program.  The nonprofit models provide more flexibility and adaptability for management, operations, innovation, and community engagement.

     Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to establish a nonprofit entity to collaborate with the State to create and manage endangered species sanctuaries.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 88, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part II subpart B to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

     "§88-    Hawaii conservation sanctuary employees.  Any employee of the Hawaii conservation sanctuary established pursuant to Act     , Session Laws of Hawaii 2026, shall be entitled to all benefits and required to make all employee contributions under the system for the period during which the employee remains in the employ of the corporation and a member of the system, and the corporation shall be responsible for the remittance of all employer and employee contributions required to be made under the system."

     SECTION 3.  There is established a conservation nonprofit public corporation to be known as the Hawaii conservation sanctuary.  The corporation shall be devoted to the conservation purposes of this Act.  The corporation shall not be considered a department, agency, or public instrumentality of the State, and shall not be subject to the laws of the State applying to state departments, agencies, or public instrumentalities, except that the corporation shall be subject to all the laws of the State pertaining to nonprofit corporations.

     As used in this Act, "corporation" means the "Hawaii conservation sanctuary".

     SECTION 4.  The purpose of the corporation shall be to protect and expand populations of endangered species and other wildlife from within and outside the State by developing and operating at least three conservation sanctuaries in the State as follows:

     (1)  One around a recreational body of water;

     (2)  One in an area appropriate for the protection of native birds; and

     (3)  One in an area appropriate for the protection of larger species of wildlife.

     SECTION 5.  (a)  The corporation shall have the following powers and duties and shall:

     (1)  Have succession and corporate existence in perpetuity;

     (2)  Adopt, amend, and repeal bylaws providing for its organization and internal management and governing the conduct of its business and the performance of the powers and duties granted to or imposed upon it by law consistent with this Act; provided that all meetings for the adoption, amendment, and repeal of bylaws shall be open to the public, and public notice of any meeting, including an agenda of items to be discussed at the meeting, shall be announced at least fourteen days in advance and published at least twice in a newspaper of general circulation in the State within the fourteen days but at least seven days before the meeting;

     (3)  Adopt and use a common seal;

     (4)  Acquire, sell, lease, rent, hold, maintain, use, manage, and operate any property, real, personal, or mixed, intangible or tangible, to the extent deemed necessary or appropriate to carry out its purposes;

     (5)  Enter into and perform contracts, leases, cooperative agreements, or other arrangements as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act;

     (6)  Determine the character of, and necessity for, its obligations and expenditures, and the manner in which obligations and expenditures shall be incurred, allowed, and paid;

     (7)  Seek, receive, and accept from public and private sources located within or outside of the United States, by grants, gifts, devices, bequests, or otherwise money and property, real, personal, or mixed, intangible or tangible, absolutely or in trust, to be used in carrying out the purposes of this Act;

     (8)  Serve as trustee and be named a beneficiary under the terms of any gift, indenture, or will;

     (9)  Appoint and discharge a chief executive officer, subordinate officers, employees, and agents as the business of the corporation requires, and to classify, prescribe the duties and qualifications, and fix the compensation and benefits of all officers, employees, and agents of the corporation;

    (10)  Establish policies and procedures as may be necessary, including a personnel system and budget system;

    (11)  Enter into employee collective bargaining agreements in conformance with applicable laws;

    (12)  Establish and maintain, and to assist in establishing and maintaining, scholarships, fellowships, lectureships, chairs, and other staff positions, and to enter into contracts, agreements, and other arrangements with any person, firm, association, institution, corporation, or organization, whether private, governmental, or international and located within or outside of the United States, for this purpose, and to pay the necessary and appropriate costs and expenses therefor;

    (13)  Collect fees and other charges for programs, facilities, services, and educational products, and to hold copyright;

    (14)  Sue and be sued in its corporate name; provided that the corporation shall be immune from any writ of attachment and execution against its assets;

    (15)  Delegate any of the powers of the corporation to any standing or special committee, board, or body, or to any officer or agent, upon terms that it deems fit except for the powers granted under paragraph (2);

    (16)  Execute, in accordance with its bylaws, all contracts and other instruments necessary or appropriate for the exercise of its powers under this Act; and

    (17)  Do any and all things necessary or appropriate to carry out its purposes and exercise the powers given and granted in this Act.

     (b)  The corporation may partner or otherwise collaborate with the department of land and natural resources to carry out its purposes and exercise the powers given and granted in this Act.

     SECTION 6.  (a)  The corporation shall have a board of governors that shall manage and control the affairs of the corporation and shall exercise all powers of the corporation, except to the extent that they have been delegated by this Act or pursuant to action by the board of governors.  The board shall consist of eighteen members as follows:

     (1)  The governor, or their designee, who shall serve as an ex officio member of the board;

     (2)  The lieutenant governor, or their designee, who shall serve as an ex officio member;

     (3)  The chairperson of the board of land and natural resources, who shall serve as an ex officio, nonvoting member, and shall serve as the chairperson until the time that a chairperson is elected by the board from the membership;

     (4)  Five members, who are residents of the State, to be appointed by the governor;

     (5)  Five members, to be appointed by the lieutenant governor; and

     (6)  Five members to be elected by the members of the board.

     (b)  The term of each appointed or elected member of the board shall be three years, except for those members of the initial board who shall be appointed or elected, as the case may be, and serve terms as follows:

     (1)  The governor shall appoint two members for terms of one year, two members for terms of two years, and one member for a term of three years;

     (2)  The lieutenant governor shall appoint two members for terms of one year, two members for terms of two years, and one member for a term of three years; and

     (3)  Of the members elected to the board by the membership of the board, two members shall be elected for terms of one year, two members for terms of two years, and one member for a term of three years.

     (c)  Each appointed or elected member, and each initial member appointed or elected for a particular term, of the board shall continue to serve until the successor to the member has been appointed or elected.  The term of the initial members shall be computed from the date of the first meeting of the board.  The term of each elected member other than the initial members shall be computed from the date of termination of the preceding term, or if there is no preceding term, then from the date of the first meeting of the board following the member's appointment or election.  Any member appointed or elected to fill a vacancy occurring before the expiration of the term for which the member's predecessor was chosen shall serve for the remainder of the term.  No appointed or elected member may serve more than three terms, except that those initial members appointed to a term of less than three years may be appointed or elected to serve for not more than three subsequent terms.

     (d)  In connection with all appointments or elections to the board, due consideration shall be given to the selection of distinguished individuals who represent a cross-section of educational, cultural, business, labor, and public service backgrounds, possess knowledge of, experience in, or profound interest in wildlife conservation.

     (e)  The board shall meet at least twice a year and at a time that the board deems necessary.  Public notice of a board meeting, including an agenda of items to be discussed at the meeting, shall be given at least fourteen days in advance.  The notice shall be mailed to all persons who have made a timely request of the board for advance notice of its meeting and shall be published at least twice in a newspaper of general circulation in the State.

     SECTION 7.  (a)  The board shall appoint a chief executive officer of the corporation, who shall serve at the pleasure of the board and shall be designated by an appropriate title, to administer the corporation.

     (b)  The chief executive officer, subject to approval by the board, shall appoint and remove subordinate officers and other employees and duly authorized representatives of the corporation as the chief executive officer determines, in consultation with the board, to be necessary to carry out the purposes of the corporation; provided that the board shall have the right to delegate to the chief executive officer or to committees or otherwise the right to appoint any subordinate officers, employees, and duly authorized representatives without approval of the board.

     (c)  The chief executive officer, employees, and duly authorized representatives of the corporation shall be compensated at rates determined by the board.

     (d)  The chief executive officer, or their designee, shall be available for monthly meetings with participants on matters of mutual interests.

     (e)  All employees of the corporation shall have full rights under all applicable laws to self-organization, to form, join, or assist labor organizations to bargain collectively through representatives of their own choosing, and to engage in other concerted activities for the purpose of collective bargaining or other mutual aid or protection and shall have the right to refrain from any or all activities except to the extent that the right may be affected by an agreement requiring membership in a labor organization as a condition of employment as may be permitted under all applicable laws.

     (f)  Except as otherwise provided in this Act, the chief executive officer, any subordinate officers, and other employees and duly authorized representatives of the corporation shall not be considered officers or employees of the State for the purposes of any state law, regulation, or executive order.

     SECTION 8.  The corporation shall neither conduct nor support any classified activity or research and shall make the results of its activities and research available to the public.

     SECTION 9.  (a)  The corporation shall have no power to issue any shares of stock or to declare or pay any dividends.

     (b)  No part of the income or assets of the corporation shall inure to the benefit of any member of the board, the chief executive officer, any employee, or any individual, except as reasonable compensation for services or reimbursement for expenses.

     (c)  The corporation shall not undertake to influence the policy and passage or defeat of any legislation by the United States Congress or by any state or local legislative bodies or by any legislative body of any other nation; provided that members of the board and personnel of the corporation may testify or make other appropriate communications where formally requested to do so by a legislative body, a committee, or a member thereof, or in connection with legislation or appropriations directly affecting a conservation sanctuary operated by the corporation.

     (d)  The corporation shall not contribute to, participate, intervene in, or otherwise support or assist any political party or association or the campaign of any candidate for public or party office.

     SECTION 10.  (a)  The corporation shall keep accurate and complete books of account and minutes of the proceedings of the board and of any committees, boards, or bodies where the board has delegated any of its powers.

     (b)  The corporation shall publish an annual report which shall be filed by the corporation with the governor, lieutenant governor, legislature, chairperson of the board of land and natural resources, and director of commerce and consumer affairs who shall maintain a copy for public inspection during regular office hours.

     SECTION 11.  In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of the corporation, all assets remaining after satisfaction of, or provision for satisfaction of, all obligations, debts, and liabilities of the corporation shall be distributed to a nonprofit fund, foundation, or corporation that is organized and operated exclusively for wildlife conservation purposes and which has established its tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended; to the United States; or to the State.

     SECTION 12.  If any provision of this Act, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications of the Act that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this Act are severable.

     SECTION 13.  New statutory material is underscored.

     SECTION 14.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2050.

Report Title:

DLNR; Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary Corporation; Endangered Species; Wildlife; Conservation; Board of Governors; Executive Director; Rules; Report; Limitations

Description:

Establishes the Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary Corporation to protect and expand the populations of endangered species and other wildlife, native or nonnative, by establishing sanctuaries in the State.  Establishes powers and duties of the Corporation.  Authorizes the Corporation to partner or otherwise collaborate with the Department of Land and Natural Resources.  Establishes rules for the Corporation's Board of Governors, Executive Director, and business practices.  Requires an annual report to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Legislature, Chairperson of the Board of Land and Natural Resources, and Director of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.  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 CONSERVATION.

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

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that numerous species in Hawaii are on the brink of extinction, in particular many indigenous birds found nowhere else in the world.  While the State has made progress in addressing the myriad causes contributing to extinction, the legislature finds that existing efforts must be supplemented to prevent further loss of biodiversity.

     The legislature recognizes that Zealandia (Te Mara a Tane) is a pioneering conservation sanctuary in Wellington, New Zealand, best known for proving how dramatically nature can rebound with proper protection.  Built as a fully fenced, predator-excluded sanctuary, Zealandia creates a safe haven where native birds, reptiles, and plants thrive and recover in near-natural habitats, safe from invasive predators and vectors.  This model has not only enabled the reintroduction and rapid growth of iconic native species that were once on the brink of extinction, but it has also transformed the valley into a living example of ecosystem restoration in a modern city.

     Just as importantly, Zealandia's impact extends beyond its fence line:  thriving populations disperse outward into surrounding neighborhoods and green spaces, helping native wildlife return to the wider region.  Zealandia also facilitates community engagement by welcoming volunteers, residents, researchers, and visitors and serving as a hub for school programs and hands-on learning.  Its success in engaging community and visitors has helped Zealandia become largely self‑funding through admissions, memberships, tours, and experiences that reinvest directly into conservation.

     The legislature also recognizes that successful sanctuary models in the United States generate substantial revenue for conservation efforts.  They serve as educational centers for local schools, destinations for visitors, and provide critical habitat for endangered and other species.  Hawaii's climate and environment offer a more natural habitat for many species than found elsewhere in the continental United States.  With appropriate considerations and protections to ensure no adverse impact on Hawaii's own environment, the State can improve the living conditions of rescued animals from other states and generate significant revenue for Hawaii's conservation efforts.

     The legislature believes that the State is uniquely positioned to become a national center for endangered species research, education, and protection.  Establishing sanctuaries in Hawaii like those that have proven successful elsewhere can advance the State's position as the premier place for endangered species work and conservation and create pathways for local education, jobs, investment, and research.

     The legislature also believes that these successful nonprofit models for establishing and operating potential endangered species sanctuaries are preferable to a government‑run program.  They provide more flexibility and adaptability for management, operations, innovation, and community engagement.

     Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to enable the establishment of a nonprofit partner to collaborate with the State to create and manage endangered species sanctuaries.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 195D, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part II to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

     "§195D-     Hawaii conservation sanctuary; established.  (a)  There shall be established the Hawaii conservation sanctuary as a nonprofit group to work with the department to enhance and support the work of conservation and endangered species and wildlife preservation, and to oversee ancillary programs.

     (b)  The Hawaii conservation sanctuary shall protect and expand populations of endangered species and other wildlife from within and outside the State by developing and operating conservation sanctuaries in the State.

     (c)  The Hawaii conservation sanctuary may:

     (1)  Operate for-profit business enterprises;

     (2)  Hold or lease property; and

     (3)  Enter into contracts to support its mission

     (d)  The qualifying standards and conditions related to the receipt of funds contained in chapter 42F shall not apply to funds received by the Hawaii conservation sanctuary; provided that if the Hawaii conservation sanctuary in turn contracts with a recipient or provider, then the qualifying standards, conditions, and other provisions of chapter 42F shall apply to the recipient or provider and the contract.

     (e)  The department shall assist the Hawaii conservation sanctuary with identifying and accessing appropriate land to support its mission."

     SECTION 3.  New statutory material is underscored.

     SECTION 4.  This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

Report Title:

DLNR; Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary; Endangered Species; Wildlife; Conservation

Description:

Establishes the Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary as a nonprofit group to work with the Department of Land and Natural Resources to support conservation, wildlife preservation, and ancillary programs by establishing sanctuaries in the State.

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. 2951

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:     S.B. No. 3253

        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. 3253, S.D. 1, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CONSERVATION,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to protect and expand populations of endangered species in the State.

     Specifically, this measure:

     (1)  Establishes the Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary Corporation as a nonprofit public corporation to protect and expand the populations of endangered species and other wildlife by creating conservation sanctuaries within the State;

     (2)  Specifies the powers and duties of the Corporation; and

     (3)  Requires annual reporting by the Corporation.

     Your Committee received written comments on this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Employees' Retirement System, and one individual.

     Your Committee finds that Hawaii is widely recognized as the endangered species capital of the world and that the establishment of a nonprofit entity to create wildlife sanctuaries will assist the State in wildlife conservation and preservation.

     Your Committee has amended this measure by:

     (1)  Establishing the Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary as a nonprofit organization and simplifying the organizational and administrative requirements for the entity;

     (2)  Deleting provisions requiring that employees of the Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary Corporation be entitled to benefits under the Employees' Retirement System; and

     (3)  Authorizing the Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary to operate sanctuaries within an agricultural district.

     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. 3253, S.D. 1, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Third Reading in the form attached hereto as S.B. No. 3253, S.D. 2.

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

STAND. COM. REP. NO. 2625

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:     S.B. No. 3253

        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. 3253 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CONSERVATION,"

beg leave to report as follows:

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to establish the Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary as a nonprofit group to work with the Department of Land and Natural Resources to support conservation, wildlife preservation, and ancillary programs by establishing sanctuaries in the State.

     Your Committees received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources and Hawaiʻi Ocean Reef and Ocean Coalition.

     Your Committees find that successful sanctuary models in the United States generate substantial revenue for conservation efforts, foster tourism, educate visitors on environmental and wildlife stewardship, and provide critical habitat for endangered or other species.  Additionally, your Committees believe that these models, which are run by nonprofits, are preferable to a government-run program because they provide more flexibility in management, operations, innovation, and community engagement.  Furthermore, the State's climate and biodiversity make it uniquely positioned to become a national forerunner in the research, education, and protection of endangered species.  Thus, this measure will support the mission of the State to preserve the State's natural resources for present and future generations and increase public engagement and education in the critical field of conservation.

     Your Committees note that S.B. No. 2606, Regular Session of 2026, is a substantially similar measure that intended to establish a wildlife sanctuary nonprofit for the purpose of overseeing the conservation of a recreation area containing a body of water.  Accordingly, your Committees have amended this measure by:

     (1)  Inserting language from S.B. No. 2606 that would establish a conservation nonprofit public corporation,  its powers and duties, its board of governors, its leadership and employment structure, the limits of its conduct, and specific requirements related to its operations; and naming it the Hawaii Conservation Sanctuary Corporation;

     (2)  Clarifying the purpose of the Corporation to be to protect and expand populations of native and endangered species and other wildlife from within and outside the State by developing and operating at least three conservation sanctuaries in the State as follows:

          (a)  One around a recreational body of water;

          (b)  One in an area appropriate for the protection of native birds; and

          (c)  One in an area appropriate for the protection of larger species of wildlife;

     (3)  Inserting language that would allow the Corporation to partner or otherwise collaborate with the Department of Land and Natural Resources for the purposes of this measure;

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

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

     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. 3253, as amended herein, and recommend that it pass Second Reading in the form attached hereto as S.B. No. 3253, 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,