HI HCR38

Opposes NOAA's proposed rule 064B-BA81 designating shorelines and waters surrounding all main Hawaiian Islands as critical habitat for Hawaiian monk seals

States NOAA failed to consult with Hawaii's Clean Energy Division before proposing the rule, making the agency unaware of planned ocean-based renewable energy projects including ocean thermal energy conversion, deep sea air conditioning, and wave energy programs

Argues the rule could effectively eliminate ocean-based clean energy development in Hawaii, a state that is the most oil-dependent in the nation and sends an estimated $7 billion annually out of state for petroleum purchases

Notes NOAA's own economic report acknowledges insufficient data to determine impacts on clean energy programs, harbor modernization, oil spill cleanups, and beach restoration projects

Requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources and Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to oppose adoption of the proposed rule