HB 449 Summary

• Establishes a statewide sustainability division within the Office of Planning to coordinate and implement Hawaii's sustainability goals, climate action planning, and policies across government agencies.

• Defines "sustainability" as using and protecting resources to meet current needs while ensuring future generations can meet theirs, from environmental, economic, and socially equitable perspectives.

• Sets statewide sustainability objectives including energy and water efficiency, support for economically distressed communities, protection of native habitats, and alignment with United Nations sustainable development goals.

• Appropriates funds for fiscal years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 to establish the division and create 5 new full-time positions: 1 secretary III, 2 planner IV, and 2 planner V positions.

• Amends the Office of Planning's purpose to include coordinating implementation of sustainability principles that balance economic development with environmental protection through public-private sector collaboration.