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Bill

SB 1019

RELATING TO THE OCEAN RECREATION SPECIAL FUND.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 3 co-sponsors

Hawaii bill establishes dedicated Ocean Recreation Special Fund to provide stable financing for beach maintenance, water safety, and recreational programs instead of relying on annual budget allocations.

Re-Referred to WLA, WAM.
#beachcleanups #oceanstewardshipspecialfund #shorelinerestoration
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Bill Summary · SB 1019

Legislative bill overview

SB 1019 establishes or modifies the Ocean Recreation Special Fund in Hawaii, a dedicated funding mechanism for ocean-related recreational activities and programs. The bill has been deferred in committee and carried over to the 2026 legislative session, indicating ongoing deliberation about its provisions and fiscal implications.

Why is this important

Hawaii's ocean recreation generates significant economic activity and supports public health and tourism. A dedicated special fund would provide stable, predictable financing for beach maintenance, water safety programs, recreational facilities, and conservation efforts—rather than relying on annual general appropriations that can fluctuate with budget pressures.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source: The bill's mechanisms for generating revenue (user fees, taxes, general fund allocation) will determine who bears the cost and whether funding is adequate
  • Fund management and oversight: Questions about which agency controls the fund, how money is allocated among competing ocean recreation priorities, and accountability for results
  • Scope definition: Disagreement over what constitutes "ocean recreation" and whether the fund should support conservation, infrastructure, workforce development, or primarily recreational access

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

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