HI HB196

Establishes a new Department of Environmental Protection as a principal executive department effective July 1, 2027, adding it as the 20th principal department in Hawaii's state government structure.

Creates a Department of Environmental Protection Working Group to develop an organizational and functional plan, implementation structure, funding recommendations, and transition procedures for transferring existing functions and resources to the new department.

Working group consists of 9 members including the Chief Energy Officer, Board of Land and Natural Resources Chairperson, Director of Office of Planning and Sustainable Development, Attorney General, Director of Health, Comptroller, and others.

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

Legislature finds that environmental protection functions are currently dispersed among multiple departments with conflicting missions, and consolidation under one department will improve efficiency in addressing Hawaii's environmental issues and climate crisis impacts.