HB 449 Summary

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

• Defines "sustainability" as using and protecting resources to meet current needs while ensuring future generations can also meet theirs, incorporating environmental, economic, and social equity objectives.

• Sets specific sustainability objectives for state agencies including energy and water efficiency, support for economically distressed communities, environmental protection, and coordination of United Nations sustainable development goals.

• Appropriates funds for fiscal years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 to establish the division and staff it with five full-time equivalent positions (1 secretary III, 2 planner IV, and 2 planner V positions).

• Takes effect July 1, 2100 (note: effective date appears to be a placeholder error in the legislative text).