RELATING TO THE HAWAII INVASIVE SPECIES COUNCIL.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Della Belatti and 24 co-sponsors

HB 299 boosts funding for the Hawaii Invasive Species Council to combat invasive species, protecting native ecosystems and resources across the islands.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

#appropriations($) #hisc #invasivespecies #nativeresourcesandfireprotectionprogram #viabilityfunding

Purpose and Intent

HB 299 aims to enhance the effectiveness of the Hawaii Invasive Species Council (HISC) by providing necessary appropriations and support for initiatives aimed at managing and mitigating invasive species in Hawaii. The bill seeks to safeguard native resources and promote ecological health across the islands.

Key Provisions

Appropriations: The bill includes provisions for funding that will support the operations and initiatives of the HISC. Specific dollar amounts for appropriations are not detailed in the provided information.

Focus on Invasive Species: The bill emphasizes the importance of addressing invasive species, which pose significant threats to Hawaii's unique ecosystems and native species.

Native Resources and Fire Protection Program: The bill also aims to integrate efforts related to fire protection and the preservation of native resources, recognizing the interconnectedness of these issues with invasive species management.

Viability Funding: The legislation proposes funding mechanisms to ensure the viability of programs and initiatives that combat invasive species.

Affected Parties

Hawaii Invasive Species Council (HISC): The primary entity that will benefit from the appropriations and support outlined in the bill.

Native Ecosystems: The bill indirectly affects all native species and ecosystems in Hawaii by aiming to reduce the impact of invasive species.

Local Communities: Residents and stakeholders involved in conservation efforts and those who rely on native resources may also be impacted positively by the initiatives funded through this bill.

Legislative Timeline and Procedural Aspects

Introduced: January 16, 2025

First Reading: The bill passed its first reading on March 6, 2025.

Committee Reviews: The bill has undergone several committee reviews, including recommendations for amendments and passage:

WTL/AEN: Recommended passage with amendments on March 19, 2025.
FIN: Recommended passage without amendments on February 24, 2025.

Second Reading: The bill passed its second reading on March 21, 2025, and was referred to the Ways and Means Committee (WAM) for further consideration.

Public Hearings: A public hearing was scheduled for March 19, 2025, to gather input from stakeholders and the community.

Related Legislation

SB 548: This bill serves as a companion measure to HB 299, indicating a parallel legislative effort to address similar issues related to invasive species in Hawaii.

In summary, HB 299 represents a significant legislative effort to bolster the state's capacity to manage invasive species, protect native resources, and ensure ecological viability through targeted funding and support for the Hawaii Invasive Species Council.

Bill