Hawaii House Bill HR98

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/14/22

Caption

Requesting The Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation And Adaptation Commission To Convene A Task Force To Address Areas In Koolauloa That Are Most Vulnerable To Sea Level Rise.

Impact

If enacted, HR98 would lead to the formation of a task force that includes various stakeholders such as local residents, transportation officials, and representatives from legislative committees. The task force's objectives will include identifying high-risk areas, evaluating mitigation options like shoreline hardening and community relocation, and engaging locals in discussions about potential solutions. This proactive approach aims to safeguard public safety and enhance the resilience of the Koolauloa region against climate-related challenges.

Summary

House Resolution 98 (HR98) aims to address the imminent threats posed by climate change and sea level rise, particularly focusing on the vulnerable areas of Koolauloa in Hawaii. The resolution requests the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission to convene a task force dedicated to assessing the vulnerabilities and devising long-term solutions to combat the risks associated with rising sea levels. The Koolauloa area, which has already experienced significant coastal erosion and infrastructure damage, serves as a critical case study for this effort.

Contention

The discussions surrounding HR98 might anticipate challenges related to funding for proposed solutions and the coordination among various governmental departments involved in executing the task force's findings. Additionally, the balance between immediate remediation efforts and long-term sustainability measures could spark debate among stakeholders, especially those concerned about the environmental impacts of potential relocation and infrastructure projects.