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HI HB1139
Bill
Status
Introduced
1/23/2025
Primary Sponsor
Nadine Nakamura
Click for details
AI Summary
- Establishes a $50 annual environmental stewardship fee for visitors age 15 and older to access state-owned beaches, parks, forests, trails, recreational areas, and coastlines in Hawaii
- Creates the Environmental Stewardship Commission within the Department of Land and Natural Resources to recommend fund disbursements and monitor the program, with members including state officials and appointees with environmental and Native Hawaiian cultural expertise
- Establishes a special fund to receive fee revenues, with moneys allocated to protect, restore, and enhance natural and cultural resources impacted by visitor use, including up to 50% for grants to nonprofit organizations
- Appropriates $3 million for fiscal year 2025-2026 to establish the program and commission, plus $250,000 annually for three new staff positions (coordinator, office assistant, and accountant)
- Delays penalty enforcement until July 1, 2030, allowing time for public education and implementation, with annual reporting to the legislature required beginning in 2026
Legislative Description
Relating To Environmental Stewardship Fees.
Appropriation ($)
Last Action
Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
12/8/2025
Committee Referrals
Tourism1/23/2025
Full Bill Text
No bill text available