Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HB551

Introduced
1/25/21  
Refer
1/27/21  
Report Pass
2/12/21  

Caption

Proposing An Amendment To Article I Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Guarantee All Individuals The Right To Have A Clean And Healthy Environment.

Impact

If adopted, this constitutional amendment would significantly enhance individuals' rights concerning environmental quality in Hawaii. It obliges the state to safeguard these fundamental rights, thereby creating a more robust framework for environmental protection. The emphasis on individual rights elevates environmental considerations to the same status as other essential rights in the state's Bill of Rights, which could have far-reaching implications for future legislation and policies regarding environmental conservation and resource management.

Summary

House Bill 551 proposes an amendment to Article I of the Constitution of the State of Hawaii, asserting that every individual has the right to a clean and healthy environment. This initiative directly extends the existing constitutional commitment the state holds to protect its natural resources by establishing individual rights to critical environmental factors such as pure air, clean water, and stable climate conditions. The proposed amendment aims to ensure these rights are self-executing and can be invoked by individuals without needing additional legislation to enforce them.

Sentiment

The sentiment towards HB 551 appears largely positive among environmental advocacy groups and certain legislators who view the measure as a pivotal step in reinforcing environmental protection in Hawaii. However, some concerns have been raised regarding potential overreach or complications that could arise in implementing such broad environmental rights. The bill has sparked discussions about the balance between economic activity and environmental responsibility, indicating a spectrum of opinions among stakeholders regarding how best to achieve sustainable development.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 551 include debates over the practicalities of enforcing the right to a clean and healthy environment. Critics express concerns about the lack of clarity concerning how these rights would interact with existing state regulations, particularly in areas where economic development might conflict with environmental protections. Furthermore, questions regarding the necessity of this amendment when existing laws already provide certain protections may also be a factor in discussions among lawmakers. The bill's effectiveness in influencing future legislation will depend on how these rights are interpreted and implemented in practice.

Companion Bills

HI SB502

Same As Proposing An Amendment To Article I Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Guarantee All Individuals The Right To Have A Clean And Healthy Environment.

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