Hawaii Senate Bill SB777

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/21
• Refer: 1/27/21
• Report Pass: 2/8/21
• Refer: 2/8/21
• Report Pass: 2/7/22
• Engrossed: 2/9/22
• Refer: 3/10/22
• Report Pass: 3/23/22
• Refer: 3/23/22

Caption

Relating To The Criminal Destruction Of Trees.

Impact

The bill is expected to strengthen protections for trees located on state and county properties, underscoring the importance of environmental stewardship. Violators found guilty will not only face a misdemeanor charge but will also be required to pay for the replacement value of the destroyed trees, as assessed by a certified arborist. This provision intends to ensure that offenders bear the financial responsibility for their actions, further promoting accountability in preserving public resources.

Summary

Senate Bill 777 establishes a new criminal offense in Hawaii known as the 'criminal destruction of a tree on state or county property.' The bill specifies that individuals may be charged if they intentionally fell, injure, or destroy a tree to the point of it having no value or substantially damage its potential value without the consent of the appropriate government authority. The offense will be classified as a misdemeanor, carrying both criminal and civil liabilities for violators.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 777 appears to be positive towards environmental conservation, as the establishment of penalties for tree destruction aligns with growing concerns regarding ecological preservation. Many proponents contend that the bill is a necessary step in protecting Hawaii's unique natural heritage. However, there may also be concerns regarding the enforcement of such laws and whether they might unintentionally hinder legitimate activities necessary for land management or environmental remediation.

Contention

Notably, the bill includes exceptions for state or county employees acting within the scope of their duties and for volunteers authorized to remove undesirable trees, such as invasive species or trees deemed harmful to cultural sites. This aspect has raised some discussion regarding the balance between conservation efforts and practical land management, highlighting the need for clear guidelines to prevent potential misuse of the law.