H.B. 239 Summary

• Establishes social equity as a foundational principle in Hawaii's clean energy transition by requiring the Hawaii clean energy initiative program to design and implement plans for increasing clean energy jobs and supporting equitable transition strategies from 2023 to 2030.

• Authorizes use of the energy security special fund to create jobs in clean energy sectors, prioritizing positions that meet or exceed the self-sufficiency standard, and to expand workforce development programs for workers transitioning from carbon-heavy industries.

• Defines "social equity" in climate policy as fair treatment in development and enforcement of environmental policies regardless of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or income level.

• Appropriates unspecified amounts from general revenues to the energy security special fund for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025, with funds directed to the clean energy initiative program.

• Takes effect June 30, 3000.