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Bill

Bill

SB 1258

RELATING TO GREEN BONDS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Gabbard

SB 1258 establishes a green bonds program to fund environmentally beneficial projects, promoting sustainability and economic growth while ensuring transparency and accountability.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · SB 1258

Summary of SB 1258: Relating to Green Bonds

Overview

Bill Number: SB 1258
Title: Relating to Green Bonds
Status: Referred to EDT (Economic Development and Technology), WAM (Ways and Means)
Introduced: January 21, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: DBEDT (Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism), Green Bonds Financing Program, Green Bonds Working Group

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SB 1258 is to establish a framework for the issuance and management of green bonds in the state. Green bonds are financial instruments specifically earmarked to raise funds for projects that have positive environmental impacts. This bill aims to promote sustainable development and investment in green infrastructure, thereby supporting the state's commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of a Green Bonds Financing Program: The bill proposes the creation of a program under the DBEDT to facilitate the issuance of green bonds. This program will provide guidelines and standards for projects eligible for funding through green bonds.

  • Formation of a Green Bonds Working Group: The legislation calls for the establishment of a working group tasked with overseeing the implementation of the green bonds program. This group will include stakeholders from various sectors, including government, finance, and environmental advocacy.

  • Eligibility Criteria: The bill outlines specific criteria for projects that can be financed through green bonds, ensuring that funds are directed towards initiatives that contribute to environmental sustainability.

  • Reporting Requirements: The bill mandates regular reporting on the use of proceeds from green bonds, ensuring transparency and accountability in how funds are utilized.

Impact

  • Beneficiaries: The bill is expected to benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including state agencies, local governments, private investors, and environmental organizations. By facilitating access to capital for green projects, it aims to stimulate economic growth while addressing environmental challenges.

  • Environmental Outcomes: Projects funded through the green bonds program are anticipated to lead to significant improvements in environmental quality, including reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, enhanced energy efficiency, and increased investment in renewable energy sources.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 21, 2025: Bill introduced and pending introduction.
  • January 23, 2025: Bill passed its first reading.
  • January 27, 2025: Referred to the Economic Development and Technology (EDT) and Ways and Means (WAM) committees for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • HB 932: This bill serves as a companion to SB 1258, indicating a parallel legislative effort to address similar issues related to green bonds.

In summary, SB 1258 represents a significant step towards enhancing the state's capacity to finance environmentally beneficial projects through green bonds, promoting sustainable economic development and environmental stewardship.

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

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