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SCR 122

REQUESTING A COMMITMENT TO A NUCLEAR-FREE, SUSTAINABLE FUTURE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Gabbard

Hawaii SCR 122 is a non-binding resolution opposing nuclear power and pledging a 100% renewable energy future by 2045, guiding policy toward safer, cost-effective clean energy.

Referred to AEN/EIG.
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Bill Summary · SCR 122

SCR 122 — Commitment to a Sustainable Future (Hawaii)

A concise, non-binding concurrent resolution in Hawaii’s 2025 legislative session that expresses opposition to nuclear energy and affirms a commitment to a sustainable, renewable-energy future.

Purpose and intent

  • Reiterate Hawaii’s constitutional ban on nuclear power (Article XI, Section 8) and uphold the state’s long-standing opposition to nuclear energy.
  • Emphasize a transition toward a sustainable future powered by renewable energy, in line with Hawaii’s goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045 (Act 97, 2015).
  • Argue that pursuing nuclear energy would be costly, unsafe, and misaligned with Hawaii’s energy and environmental priorities.
  • Demonstrate legislative unity across chambers in opposing nuclear energy and in prioritizing proven clean-energy solutions.

Key provisions and claims

  • Constitutional and policy basis:
    • Hawaii’s constitution prohibits nuclear fission plants without legislative authorization.
    • County-level measures banning nuclear energy have already been enacted, underscoring public support for alternatives.
  • Safety, transport, and siting concerns:
    • Nuclear fuel transport poses hazards for an island state reliant on maritime routes.
    • Emergency planning zones around nuclear facilities (as per NRC guidance) would complicate siting in Hawaii.
    • Seismic activity, volcanic risks, and tsunami exposure raise long-term safety concerns for storing and handling nuclear waste.
  • Economic and environmental critique:
    • Nuclear energy is characterized as not renewable, with high costs and uncertain deployment viability.
    • Emphasis on accelerating proven, cost-effective renewable technologies (solar, wind) and energy efficiency to meet 2045 goals.
  • Policy directive:
    • The Legislature commits to opposing the use of nuclear energy in Hawaii and to pursuing a sustainable, renewable energy future.
    • Coordinated communication and action with state and local government officials to advance this stance.

Affected parties and impacts

  • State government and agencies involved in energy planning and regulation.
  • Residents and communities across Hawaii, given safety, environmental, and economic considerations.
  • Nuclear energy proponents and the broader energy industry (as a formal policy signal rather than new regulatory obligations).

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced: March 7, 2025; referred to committees (AEN/EIG) for initial consideration.
  • Legislative actions indicate progression through the session:
    • Referred and debated in committees in March.
    • Passed the Senate on August 12, 2025 (19 YES, 2 ABSENT).
    • Passed the House by voice vote on the same day (August 12, 2025).
  • Companion measure: HCR 93 (companion bill) exists.

Sponsors and related measures

  • Primary sponsor: GABBARD.
  • Related/companion bill: HCR 93.

Summary takeaway

SCR 122 is a non-binding concurrent resolution signaling Hawaii’s commitment to a sustainable, 100% renewable-energy future and its opposition to nuclear energy, grounded in constitutional, safety, economic, and environmental considerations. It directs continued legislative and intergovernmental collaboration to assess and shape energy policy aligned with these goals.

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

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