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Bill

HB 2395

RELATING TO THE TAKING OF MARINE DEPOSITS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Kitagawa and 8 co-sponsors

HB 2395 establishes a permitting system for commercial marine deposit extraction in Hawaii while protecting environmental resources and Native Hawaiian cultural sites.

Act 063, 05/29/2026 (Gov. Msg. No. 1163).
#approvals #dlnr #permits #takingofmarinedeposits
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Bill Summary · HB 2395

Legislative bill overview

HB 2395 regulates the commercial extraction and removal of marine deposits (sand, coral, shells, rocks) from Hawaii's ocean floors and beaches. The bill establishes permitting requirements, environmental standards, and restrictions on where and how marine materials can be harvested to protect coastal ecosystems and Hawaiian cultural sites.

Why is this important

Marine deposit extraction affects Hawaii's beaches, nearshore habitats, and marine biodiversity while also impacting tourism and recreation. The bill addresses growing commercial interest in sand mining and similar activities by creating a regulatory framework that balances economic interests with environmental protection and cultural preservation.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental protection vs. economic development: Stricter extraction limits may increase costs for construction and agricultural industries relying on marine materials, potentially affecting housing affordability and local businesses
  • Native Hawaiian rights and consultation: Determining appropriate involvement of Native Hawaiian communities in permitting decisions and protection of culturally significant sites
  • Enforcement and compliance: Creating effective monitoring mechanisms without excessive administrative burden on state agencies, particularly for offshore operations in remote areas
  • Property rights and access: Clarifying public versus private rights to marine deposits and whether landowners or lessees can extract materials from adjacent waters

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

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