HI HB1137

Amends the definition of "beach restoration" in Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 171-151 to expand recognized restorative activities for beach lands.

Defines beach restoration to include: maintaining and improving beaches and dune systems through sand and native vegetation management; placing sand on eroded beaches from approved sources with or without stabilizing structures; and removing abandoned remnant materials from beaches and dunes that pose risks to public health and coastal ecosystems.

Exempts emergency erosion protection structures that continue to provide permitted protection from being classified as abandoned remnant materials.

Established in response to projected sea level rise of 3.9 to 5.9 feet in Hawaii by 2100, recognizing beaches as public trust resources that provide natural resilience to coastal flooding.

Effective date: July 1, 2025.