HI HB2027

Establishes a dark night skies protection advisory committee within the Department of Land and Natural Resources to develop a statewide strategy for reducing light pollution and preserving dark night skies.

Advisory committee consists of 9 voting members including the board of land and natural resources chairperson, comptroller, business/economic development director, transportation director, University of Hawaii president, four county mayors, and Office of Hawaiian Affairs CEO, with option to invite 7 additional federal/organizational representatives.

Committee shall evaluate light pollution reduction, energy conservation, protection of endangered species affected by artificial light, astronomical observation impacts, educational uses, establishment of dark sky parks, and public safety concerns related to lighting.

Committee must report findings and recommendations to the legislature by 20 days before the 2025, 2026, 2027, and 2028 regular sessions, with the advisory committee dissolving on June 30, 2028.

Expedites repeal of the existing dark night skies advisory committee under the University of Hawaii, changing its dissolution date from June 30, 2027 to July 1, 2024.