HI HR44

Encourages future legislatures to pass and the electorate to ratify a proposed constitutional amendment guaranteeing all individuals the right to a clean and healthy environment and a stable climate.

Cites environmental concerns including millions lacking safe water access, unhealthy air pollution levels worldwide, and the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility leak affecting 93,000 Hawaii residents' water sources.

Notes that air temperature increases of 0.5 to 1 degree Fahrenheit over the last century have caused rising sea levels, ocean warming and acidification, coral reef damage, native plant species decline, and reduced freshwater availability in Hawaii.

Recognizes that Native Hawaiian culture and traditional practices are intrinsically connected to environmental protection as a foundation for cultural continuity.

References Montana, New York, and Pennsylvania as states that have already adopted environmental rights amendments to their constitutions.