Hawaii House Bill HCR46

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/9/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 3/31/22
• Refer: 3/31/22
• Report Pass: 4/7/22
• Engrossed: 4/7/22
• Refer: 4/12/22

Caption

Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Engage The United States Department Of Energy To Establish A Permanent Presence Within The State Of Hawaii.

Impact

The adoption of HCR46 would likely enhance Hawaii's ability to achieve its energy goals, particularly in the realms of sustainability and climate change mitigation. By reinforcing state-federal partnerships and ensuring ongoing federal support, Hawaii aims to bolster its infrastructure for clean energy development. Legislative backing of this resolution aligns with broader national goals, including those set by the Biden-Harris Administration, which emphasizes clean energy initiatives and innovation as key components of economic strategy.

Summary

HCR46 is a House Concurrent Resolution that formally requests the Hawaii State Energy Office to engage with the United States Department of Energy to establish a permanent presence in Hawaii. This follows a long history of collaboration between the two entities aimed at facilitating a transition from fossil fuel dependence to renewable energy sources. The resolution references significant initiatives, such as the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative (HCEI), designed to transform energy planning and delivery within the state, establishing Hawaii as a leader in clean energy policy.

Contention

While HCR46 appears to have broad support in the legislative context, potential points of contention may arise regarding the implications of establishing a permanent federal presence in Hawaii. Critics may express concerns over local autonomy and the potential for federal actions to influence state energy policies in ways that may not align with local needs. Additionally, there is a need to ensure that federal involvement focuses on equity and justice, particularly given the disproportionate impact of environmental policies on disadvantaged communities in Hawaii.