Hawaii House Bill HR136

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 3/31/22
• Refer: 3/31/22

Caption

Requesting The City And County Of Honolulu To Lead Community Education Workshops Regarding The Recommendations Of The North Shore Coastal Resilience Working Group And Seek Public Input From Individuals And Organizations For The Development Of A Comprehensive And Community-driven Coastal Resilience Plan For The North Shore Of Oahu.

Impact

The resolution highlights urgent concerns about climate-induced erosion and the potential displacement of residents, with predictions indicating significant economic losses and infrastructural damage due to climate change. By fostering community involvement in the decision-making process, HR136 seeks to ensure that local knowledge and values are integrated into the coastal resilience planning. The measures proposed reflect a shift from traditional shoreline hardening tactics to more sustainable and holistic approaches that factor in community needs and the ecological balance of the coastal environment.

Summary

House Resolution 136 (HR136) is a legislative proposal aimed at addressing the impacts of climate change on the coastal areas of Hawaii, specifically targeting the North Shore of Oahu. The resolution requests that the City and County of Honolulu lead community education workshops aligned with the recommendations of the North Shore Coastal Resilience Working Group. This initiative aims to gather public input from various stakeholders to develop a comprehensive plan that enhances the resilience of the North Shore against rising sea levels and other climate impacts.

Contention

Notably, the resolution acknowledges the previous over-reliance on short-term solutions that exacerbate coastal vulnerability. It emphasizes the importance of developing long-term strategies not just for immediate protection but for the conservation of natural ecosystems as well. The ongoing efforts of the North Shore Coastal Resilience Working Group, initiated in 2021, serve as a foundation for these recommendations, underscoring the collaborative approach necessary for crafting effective policies. There is a consensus within the legislative body to explore innovative solutions that might serve as a model for other coastal communities in Hawaii facing similar challenges.