RELATING TO CARBON SEQUESTRATION INCENTIVES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Gabbard and 2 co-sponsors

SB 1178 promotes carbon sequestration in Hawaii by offering financial incentives to landowners, enhancing climate action through sustainable land management practices.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

#appropriation($) #carbonsequestration #dlnr #hawaiicarbonsmartlandmanagementassistanceprogram

Purpose and Intent

Senate Bill 1178 (SB 1178) aims to promote carbon sequestration practices in Hawaii through the establishment of financial incentives. The bill seeks to enhance the state’s efforts in combating climate change by encouraging land management practices that capture and store carbon dioxide, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Key Provisions

Incentives for Carbon Sequestration: The bill proposes the creation of a framework for providing financial incentives to landowners and land managers who implement carbon sequestration practices.

Hawaii Carbon Smart Land Management Assistance Program: SB 1178 establishes this program under the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to support land management practices that enhance carbon storage.

Appropriation of Funds: The bill includes provisions for the appropriation of funds necessary to implement the incentives and support the program effectively. Specific dollar amounts for the appropriations have not been detailed in the current version of the bill.

Affected Parties

Landowners and Land Managers: Individuals and organizations engaged in land management will be directly affected, as they may receive financial incentives for adopting carbon sequestration practices.

State Agencies: The DLNR will play a crucial role in administering the program and overseeing the implementation of the incentives.

Environmental Organizations: Groups focused on climate action and environmental sustainability may benefit from the increased adoption of carbon sequestration practices.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced Date: SB 1178 was introduced on January 17, 2025.

Legislative Actions:

First Reading: The bill passed its first reading on January 21, 2025.
Referred to Committees: On January 27, 2025, the bill was referred to the Senate Committees on Water and Land (WTL), Agriculture and Environment (AEN), and Ways and Means (WAM) for further consideration.

Companion Bill: House Bill 975 (HB 975) is identified as a companion bill, indicating parallel legislative efforts in the House of Representatives.

Conclusion

SB 1178 represents a strategic initiative to enhance carbon sequestration efforts in Hawaii through financial incentives and support programs. By fostering sustainable land management practices, the bill aims to contribute to the state's climate goals and promote environmental stewardship. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, further details regarding funding and specific implementation strategies are expected to emerge.

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