HI SB432

Designates Hawaii coral reefs as critical natural infrastructure that help mitigate climate change-related risks including storms, high wave events, sea level rise, and flooding.

Establishes that healthy coral reefs can absorb up to 97 percent of wave energy and protect approximately $836,000,000 worth of coastal infrastructure from annual flooding.

Recognizes that coral reefs provide economic benefits through fishing, tourism, and food security, while generating nearly $17 billion annually in visitor-related revenue to the state economy.

Declares that legislative recognition of coral reefs as critical natural infrastructure demonstrates state political support for nature-based solutions, which is a key metric for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding decisions for coral reef restoration projects.

Takes effect upon approval.