Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR218

Introduced
3/10/23  

Caption

Requesting The Director Of Finance To Convene Of A Working Group To Optimize Drawdowns Of Federal Funds Under The Inflation Reduction Act Of 2022 (public Law 117-169).

Impact

This resolution is particularly focused on utilizing over $4 billion allocated for home energy rebate programs, billions in tax credits for clean energy vehicle purchases, and a billion-dollar program designed to support the transition to zero-emission vehicles in Hawaii. By initiating this working group, the state hopes to ensure that funds are equitably distributed, especially to low-income and disadvantaged communities, which is a notable focus of the federal act. This could lead to advancements in local infrastructure and environmental initiatives, benefiting both the economy and sustainability efforts.

Summary

Senate Resolution 218 (SR218) aims to optimize the drawdown of federal funds under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. It calls for the Director of Finance in Hawaii to convene a working group that consists of members from various levels of government to strategically access and utilize these federal funds. The advocates for this resolution believe that by organizing resources and planning appropriately, Hawaii can significantly benefit from the substantial financial opportunities provided to mitigate climate change.

Contention

While the resolution appears commendable in its goals of enhancing energy efficiency and promoting environmental justice, it raises concerns among some community members about the effectiveness of fund allocation. Critics may question how the working group will ensure transparency and accountability in managing federal resources, particularly regarding which communities actually receive the support. Additionally, there could be apprehensions about potential bureaucratic delays in the disbursement of these funds, which could impact timely implementation of much-needed projects.

Companion Bills

HI SCR136

Same As Requesting The Director Of Finance To Convene Of A Working Group To Optimize Drawdowns Of Federal Funds Under The Inflation Reduction Act Of 2022 (public Law 117-169).

Previously Filed As

HI SR129

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Convene A Working Group To Develop Recommendations To Expand Blue Carbon Initiatives In The State.

HI SR82

Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Convene A Renewable Liquid Fuels Working Group To Study Local Production, Development, And Incentives For Renewable Liquid Fuels.

HI SR28

Requesting The Department Of Human Services To Convene A Baby Bonds Working Group.

HI SCR151

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Convene A Working Group To Develop Recommendations To Expand Blue Carbon Initiatives In The State.

HI HCR37

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Convene A Working Group To Develop Recommendations To Expand Blue Carbon Initiatives In The State.

HI HR26

Requesting The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development To Convene A Working Group To Develop Recommendations To Expand Blue Carbon Initiatives In The State.

HI SR80

Requesting The Establishment Of A Telehealth Working Group To Examine The Impact Of Widespread Telehealth Adoption During The Covid-19 Pandemic And Identify Public Policy Initiatives At The Federal And State Level To Optimize Telehealth Utilization As The State Transitions Out Of The Covid-19 Pandemic.

HI HR193

Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Convene A Renewable Liquid Fuels Working Group To Study Local Production, Development, And Incentives For Renewable Liquid Fuels.

HI HCR213

Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Convene A Renewable Liquid Fuels Working Group To Study Local Production, Development, And Incentives For Renewable Liquid Fuels.

HI SCR39

Requesting The Department Of Human Services To Convene A Baby Bonds Working Group.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.