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HR 15

REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES TO COLLABORATE WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND STATE PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL COMMISSION TO DEVELOP A STUDENT CORAL STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kirstin Kahaloa and 3 co-sponsors

Hawaii directs education and land agencies to create a student coral reef stewardship program to build conservation awareness and protect vital marine ecosystems.

Reported from EDN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1865-26) as amended in HD 2, recommending adoption.
#coralreefs #dlnr #doe #publiceducation #reports #statepubliccharterschoolcommission #studentcoralstewardshipprogram #sunscreen
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Bill Summary · HR 15

Legislative bill overview

HR 15 is a resolution requesting Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources to work with the Department of Education and the State Public Charter School Commission to develop a student coral stewardship program. The bill essentially directs state agencies to collaborate on creating an educational initiative focused on coral reef conservation and student involvement.

Why is this important

Hawaii's coral reefs are economically and ecologically vital, supporting tourism, fisheries, and marine biodiversity while facing threats from climate change, pollution, and human activity. Engaging students in stewardship programs can build environmental awareness, create workforce pipeline opportunities in marine conservation, and foster long-term community commitment to reef protection.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding and implementation costs: The resolution requests collaboration but doesn't specify budget allocation, raising questions about which agencies bear financial responsibility and whether existing resources are sufficient.
  • Program scope and measurability: The bill lacks detail on what the program will include, target grade levels, specific learning outcomes, or how success will be measured, potentially leading to vague or ineffective implementation.
  • Opportunity costs: Resources directed toward this initiative may compete with other educational priorities or environmental programs, requiring trade-offs in budget-constrained systems.

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

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