HI SB2597

Establishes the Hawaii legacy trust fund as a separate fund within the Hawaii Community Foundation to support conservation, reforestation of native trees, environmental stewardship, sustainable food and energy production, affordable housing, public education, and programs benefiting keiki and kupuna.

Fund accepts contributions from federal and state governments, private corporations, businesses, foundations, and individuals, with the Hawaii Community Foundation handling sole administration and expenditure.

Creates a five-member Hawaii legacy trust fund advisory board with representatives from the Hawaii Community Foundation, service organizations, forestry professionals, and the chairperson of the board of land and natural resources, empowered to recommend fund allocations.

Establishes the Hawaii legacy trust fund coalition as an open-membership forum to develop policy and strategy, publicize the fund, and solicit public and private contributions for conservation and sustainability initiatives.

Makes the department of land and natural resources the lead public sector agency and requires the Hawaii Community Foundation to submit annual audits and maintain records accessible to state oversight authorities.