HI SR178

Encourages Hawaii insurers and the Hawaii Property Insurance Association to pursue subrogation claims against fossil fuel industry polluters who engaged in misleading and deceptive practices regarding climate change connections to their products.

Cites evidence that certain fossil fuel polluters have been aware of their contribution to climate change for decades and knowingly misrepresented the connection between their products and climate impacts.

Identifies climate-related disasters, particularly the 2023 Maui wildfires, as major contributors to Hawaii's insurance market destabilization, rising premiums, and increasing non-renewal rates.

References precedent of insurers and injured parties pursuing claims against responsible parties in cases involving the opioid epidemic and tobacco industry to prevent costs from falling solely on policyholders and taxpayers.

Directs transmission of certified copies to the Governor, Attorney General, Insurance Commissioner, and other state and national insurance officials.