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Bill

SB 3223

RELATING TO NATURAL RESOURCES.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Richards

Hawaii bill SB 3223 addresses natural resources through provisions referred to multiple committees; specific impacts unknown pending full text release.

Referred to EDT/WLA/EDU, WAM/JDC.
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Bill Summary · SB 3223

Legislative bill overview

SB 3223 is a Hawaii bill relating to natural resources that was recently introduced by Senator Tim Richards. The bill has passed first reading and has been referred to multiple committees (Economic Development & Tourism, Water, Land & Agriculture, Education, Ways & Means, and Judiciary & Civil Law). Without access to the full bill text, the specific provisions cannot be detailed, but the committee referrals suggest it may involve resource management, land use, water rights, or educational components related to natural resources.

Why this is important

Natural resources legislation in Hawaii carries significant weight given the state's unique island ecosystem, dependence on tourism, agricultural interests, and water scarcity concerns. Bills in this category often balance economic development with environmental protection and indigenous Hawaiian rights, making them consequential for multiple stakeholder groups.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental vs. economic trade-offs: Natural resource bills frequently pit conservation efforts against development or agricultural interests
  • Water rights and allocation: Hawaii faces persistent water management challenges that pit agriculture, municipalities, and environmental needs against each other
  • Native Hawaiian interests: Any natural resource legislation may implicate traditional Hawaiian land use, water rights, or cultural resource protections

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

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