The bill aims to identify vulnerable areas and critical public infrastructure at risk from rising sea levels, ensuring that strategies are in place for both mitigation and adaptation. By enhancing the commission's role and capability, it seeks to operationalize effective practices into county planning and permitting processes. The act mandates a report to the legislature that would offer insights and recommendations on how to integrate these strategies further into state policy, aligning with Hawaii's broader climate adaptation initiatives established in prior years.
Summary
SB475 is a legislative act aiming to address the increasing impacts of climate change in Hawaii, particularly focusing on the threats posed by rising sea levels. The bill underscores the legislature's findings that Hawaii is experiencing significant climate-related challenges such as extreme tides, coastal erosion, and intensified storms. To mitigate these issues, the bill seeks to provide more substantial funding and direct the Hawaii climate change mitigation and adaptation commission to tackle the effects of sea level rise effectively.
Contention
There have been various discussions regarding the scope of the bill and its implications on local governance and resources. Some stakeholders might raise concerns over potential budgetary constraints as the bill allocates funds out of the general revenues, which may affect other essential state services. The challenge remains in balancing the funding for climate adaptation efforts with existing fiscal responsibilities, and the efficacy of implementing the proposed strategies across varying jurisdictional contexts.
Relating to making supplemental appropriations and reductions in appropriations and giving direction and adjustment authority regarding appropriations.
Authorizes the Dept. of State to temporarily close certain public facilities and museums when funds are not appropriated or otherwise made available from other sources for the operation. (gov sig)
Relating to making supplemental appropriations and reductions in appropriations and giving direction, including direction regarding reimbursement, and adjustment authority regarding appropriations.