HI SB591

Appropriates $2,100,000 for fiscal year 2015-2016 and $2,100,000 for fiscal year 2016-2017 to the Hawaii invasive species council for managing and removing albizia trees threatening critical emergency services and transportation routes.

Directs the Department of Land and Natural Resources to expend appropriated funds for coordinated albizia tree management based on priority projects identified by the Hawaii invasive species council and Big Island Invasive Species Committee.

Identifies albizia as an invasive species causing significant property damage and infrastructure threats, with pre-planned removal costing substantially less than emergency removal following tree failures.

Notes that albizia trees caused majority of power line and property damage on Hawaii island during tropical storm Iselle in 2014 despite the storm not reaching hurricane strength.

Takes effect on July 1, 2015.