Hawaii House Bill HCR81

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/22
• Refer: 3/14/22

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Undertake Beach Nourishment From Laniakea Beach To Velzyland Beach On The North Shore Of Oahu.

Impact

If enacted, the resolution is expected to initiate actions aimed at restoring and maintaining the beaches affected by erosion on Oahu's North Shore. Beach nourishment, as outlined in the resolution, involves replenishing sand that has been lost due to erosion. A wider beach is beneficial as it can mitigate storm damage by dissipating energy and protecting upland structures from storm surges and other coastal threats. This proactive measure reflects Hawaii's recognition of the need to address climate change impacts and uphold its coastal environment.

Summary

H.C.R. No. 81 is a House Concurrent Resolution presented during the Thirty-first Legislature of Hawaii in 2022. The resolution requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources to undertake beach nourishment activities from Laniakea Beach to Velzyland Beach on the North Shore of Oahu. The resolution highlights the significant impact of rising sea levels caused by climate change, which have contributed to shoreline erosion and reduced beach sizes in Hawaii. The bill emphasizes the urgency of addressing these environmental changes to protect the state's natural beauty and coastal properties.

Contention

The bill aims to bring together legislative support for coastal protection measures during a time of heightened awareness around climate change. However, as with many environmental initiatives, potential contention could arise surrounding funding for the beach nourishment efforts or the specific methods applied to replenish and maintain the beaches. Stakeholders including residents, environmentalists, and state agencies may engage in discussions about the best practices for such projects, balancing ecological considerations with infrastructural needs.