H.R. 42 Summary

• Establishes a working group to address environmental concerns at Pōka'ī Bay in Wai'anae, which faces pollution, sedimentation, and inadequate infrastructure that have degraded marine life and water quality.

• Working group membership includes the EPA Pacific Southwest Office Director, Board of Land and Natural Resources Chairperson, Director of Transportation, House District 45 Representative, City and County of Honolulu Department of Facility Maintenance Director, Honolulu City Council District 1 member, and Wai'anae Coast Neighborhood Board No. 24 Chair, with authority to invite marine biologists, fishing industry representatives, and other experts.

• Working group must conduct a comprehensive environmental assessment, evaluate feasibility and costs of erosion control, water quality monitoring, waste management improvements, marine habitat restoration, harbor practices restrictions, sustainable fishing programs, and public facilities upgrades.

• Working group is required to meet quarterly, provide quarterly reports to the House of Representatives, conduct community engagement initiatives, and provide recommendations to reduce environmental impacts.

• Working group terminates on June 30, 2027, and the City and County of Honolulu is requested to allocate funding and resources to implement the group's recommendations.