WeVote

Bill

Bill

SB 1164

RELATING TO ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP FEES.

2025 Regular Session

Bill SB 1164 establishes environmental stewardship fees to fund conservation projects, enhancing natural resource management by the DLNR and promoting accountability through reporting.

Referred to WTL/EDT, WAM/JDC.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1164

Summary of Bill SB 1164: Relating to Environmental Stewardship Fees

Purpose and Intent

Bill SB 1164 aims to establish a framework for environmental stewardship fees in order to enhance the management and protection of natural resources in the state. The bill seeks to create a sustainable funding mechanism that supports the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) in its efforts to preserve and restore the environment.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of Environmental Stewardship Fees: The bill proposes the introduction of fees that would be collected from various activities impacting the environment. These fees are intended to fund environmental conservation projects and initiatives.

  • Allocation of Funds: Revenue generated from these fees would be allocated specifically for environmental stewardship programs managed by the DLNR. This includes funding for conservation efforts, habitat restoration, and public education on environmental issues.

  • Reporting Requirements: The bill mandates the DLNR to prepare and submit annual reports detailing the collection of fees, the allocation of funds, and the outcomes of funded projects. This transparency aims to ensure accountability and effective use of resources.

Affected Parties

  • Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR): The primary agency responsible for implementing the provisions of the bill and managing the funds collected through the environmental stewardship fees.

  • Businesses and Individuals: Entities engaged in activities that impact the environment may be subject to the new fees. This could include industries such as tourism, construction, and agriculture, as well as individual citizens participating in activities like fishing or hiking in state parks.

  • Environmental Organizations: Non-profit organizations and advocacy groups focused on conservation may benefit from the funding generated by the fees, as it could support collaborative projects aimed at environmental protection.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: January 17, 2025
  • Passed First Reading: January 21, 2025
  • Referred to Committees: January 27, 2025, specifically to the Committees on Water and Land (WTL), Economic Development and Technology (EDT), and Ways and Means (WAM) / Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JDC).

Conclusion

Bill SB 1164 represents a proactive approach to environmental management by establishing a financial framework to support conservation efforts. By implementing environmental stewardship fees, the bill aims to generate necessary funding for the DLNR while promoting accountability through required reporting. The successful passage of this bill could lead to significant advancements in the state's environmental protection initiatives.

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

Sign in to ask a question.