HI HB196

Establishes a new Department of Environmental Protection as the 20th principal executive department of Hawaii state government, effective July 1, 2027.

Creates a department of environmental protection working group composed of 9 members including the chief energy officer, chairperson of the board of land and natural resources, director of health, attorney general, and representatives from the governor's office and finance.

Requires the working group to develop an organizational and functional plan for the new department including implementation structure, funding recommendations, and a transition plan for transferring existing functions and resources from other departments.

Mandates the working group submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the legislature no later than 20 days before the 2026 regular legislative session.

Addresses the legislature's finding that environmental protection functions are currently dispersed across multiple departments with conflicting missions, and that consolidation under a dedicated environmental department would improve efficiency in addressing Hawaii's environmental and climate issues.