HCR 159 Summary

• Requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources and Office of Planning to convene a task force on Waikiki's adaptation to sea level rise, in consultation with the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission.

• Task force must develop and recommend alternative adaptation options for Waikiki, including whether to retreat from rising ocean waters or implement protective measures to preserve the area.

• Task force must consider funding methods for adaptive measures from public and private stakeholders, and outline topics for any needed follow-up engineering and financial studies.

• Task force membership includes representatives from 10 entities including state/city agencies, Hawaii Tourism Authority, Chamber of Commerce, and Waikiki community organizations, co-chaired by the Board of Land and Natural Resources Chairperson and Office of Planning Director.

• Task force must submit findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2021 Regular Session convenes; members serve without compensation.