HB 913 Summary

• Amends the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority's purpose to require all activities be conducted in an "environmentally responsible and culturally appropriate" manner.

• Adds community outreach and education as a duty of the authority, including workforce development programs in science, technology, engineering, math, and aquaculture for west Hawaii residents and educational institutions.

• Requires the authority to comply with all state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and licensing and permitting requirements when establishing and managing facilities.

• Expands the board of directors' expertise criteria to include Native Hawaiian cultural practices and traditions, conservation, and animal welfare.

• Requires the research advisory committee to include a member from the University of Hawaii institutional animal care and use committee.