HB 442 Summary

• Establishes a visitor green fee program requiring visitors aged 15 and older to purchase an annual license ($50 initial fee) to access state parks, beaches, state-owned forests, hiking trails, and other state-owned natural areas, effective July 1, 2024.

• Creates a visitor green fee special fund to collect license fees, fines, appropriations, and donations, with revenues dedicated to protecting and restoring Hawaii's natural resources.

• Establishes an 11-member environmental legacy commission (including 3 ex officio members and 8 appointed representatives from environmental organizations, Native Hawaiian community, and private sector) to guide fund allocation and award grants.

• Allocates grant funds to state agencies and nonprofits (25-50% of annual revenue) for projects restoring terrestrial and marine resources, increasing climate resilience, removing invasive species, and supporting green workforce development.

• Appropriates $3 million for fiscal year 2023-2024 and $1 million from the special fund for commission establishment and strategic planning, with annual legislative reports required on program progress.