S.B. 2575 - Hawaii Seabed Mining Prevention Act

• Prohibits mining, extraction, and removal of minerals from the seabed in all state marine waters, including metals, ores, polymetallic nodules, and cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts.

• Prohibits issuance of any permits for development or operation of facilities and infrastructure associated with seabed mining within state marine waters.

• Exempts sand collection for beach replenishment with prior board approval and allows scientific research or collections by educational, scientific, research institutions, or governmental agencies.

• Preserves all existing rights, privileges, and practices of Native Hawaiian people and does not diminish state obligations to Native Hawaiians.

• Takes effect upon approval; cites risks to marine ecosystems, Native Hawaiian sovereignty, commercial fishing, and tourism as rationale for the prohibition.