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Bill

SB 2974

RELATING TO THE OCEAN RECREATION SPECIAL FUND.

2026 Regular Session

Hawaii bill creates dedicated Ocean Recreation Special Fund to finance ocean-related activities and infrastructure through consolidated revenues.

Referred to WLA/AEN, WAM.
#beachcleanups #oceanstewardshipspecialfund #shorelinerestoration
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Bill Summary · SB 2974

Legislative bill overview

SB 2974 establishes or modifies the Ocean Recreation Special Fund in Hawaii, directing revenues from ocean-related activities into a dedicated account for specific purposes. The bill was recently introduced and has passed initial procedural steps, currently under review by the Water, Land & Agriculture and Ways & Means committees.

Why is this important

Hawaii's ocean economy encompasses tourism, fishing, water sports, and conservation—sectors generating hundreds of millions annually. A dedicated special fund could streamline financing for ocean infrastructure, environmental management, and recreation access, though the actual mechanisms and fund sources remain unclear from the bill's current stage.

Potential points of contention

  • Fund source clarity: Without knowing which activities or entities fund this account, stakeholders cannot assess fairness or affordability (e.g., whether taxes on local fishers versus tourists would differ)
  • Allocation priorities: Competing interests exist between recreation access, environmental protection, and commercial fishing interests
  • Budget implications: Special funds can reduce legislative oversight; unclear whether this removes money from general appropriations or represents genuine new revenue

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

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