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Bill

Bill

SB 1164

RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP FEES.

2026 Regular Session

SB 1164 establishes environmental stewardship fees in Hawaii to fund conservation and environmental management, generating dedicated revenue while potentially increasing costs for affected businesses and consumers.

Re-Referred to WLA/EDT, WAM/JDC.
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Bill Summary · SB 1164

Legislative bill overview

SB 1164 establishes or modifies environmental stewardship fees in Hawaii, though the bill's specific provisions are not detailed in the provided legislative history. Based on the title alone, it likely creates new fees or adjusts existing ones tied to environmental conservation, management, or restoration activities. The bill has been referred to committees focused on water/land issues, economic development, and appropriations across multiple sessions.

Why is this important

Environmental stewardship fees directly affect both consumer costs and funding mechanisms for conservation efforts in Hawaii. These fees can influence business operations, tourism, construction projects, and household expenses while generating dedicated revenue for environmental programs—making the bill relevant to residents, businesses, and conservation stakeholders alike.

Potential points of contention

  • Fee structure and burden: Determining who bears the cost (consumers, businesses, developers, or specific industries) and whether fees are proportional or regressive
  • Revenue allocation: How collected fees are used, whether they create new government programs, and accountability for fund management
  • Economic competitiveness: Concerns that new fees could disadvantage Hawaii businesses or increase costs for residents in an already expensive state

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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