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SR 96

REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES AND DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO COLLABORATE TO ESTABLISH A FORMAL, LONG-TERM COLLABORATIVE PROGRAM TO EXPAND, EQUITABLY DISTRIBUTE, AND SUSTAIN TREE-CANOPY COVERAGE ACROSS PUBLIC SCHOOLS STATE WIDE.

2026 Regular Session

Hawaii requests its natural resources and education departments to jointly establish a statewide school tree-planting program prioritizing equitable canopy coverage expansion.

Referred to WLA/EDU.
#publicschools #treecanopy
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Bill Summary · SR 96

Legislative bill overview

SR 96 is a resolution requesting two Hawaii state departments—Land and Natural Resources, and Education—to jointly develop and implement a long-term program for planting and maintaining trees on public school grounds statewide. The initiative aims to expand tree canopy coverage while ensuring equitable distribution across schools.

Why is this important

Trees on school campuses provide documented benefits including improved air quality, reduced urban heat island effects, enhanced student mental health and academic performance, and stormwater management. The "equitable distribution" language suggests recognition that some schools (particularly in underserved communities) may currently lack adequate shade and environmental infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism unclear: The resolution requests collaboration but doesn't specify budget allocation, raising questions about whether departments must find existing funds or if new appropriations are needed
  • Maintenance responsibility ambiguity: Long-term tree care requires ongoing resources; unclear whether schools or the state departments bear maintenance costs and liability
  • "Equitable distribution" definition: Without clear metrics, implementation could vary widely; some schools may receive more resources than others based on interpretation of equity priorities

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

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