The bill, if enacted, will facilitate financial support for land management practices aimed at increasing carbon sequestration within Hawaii. This support is targeted particularly at smaller agricultural entities, empowering them to implement practices that contribute to the state's environmental objectives. By providing necessary funding, SB419 aims to ensure that local stakeholders can participate actively in addressing climate concerns, potentially leading to better conservation outcomes in the state.
Summary
Senate Bill 419 establishes and appropriates funding for the Hawaii Carbon Smart Land Management Assistance Pilot Program, which was introduced as a follow-up to Act 185. This program is designed to aid small farmers, ranchers, foresters, and landowners by providing compensation for efforts to maintain forests and farmlands, while also enhancing carbon sequestration efforts on those lands. The initiative reflects Hawaii's commitment to addressing climate change and achieving climate readiness goals through sustainable land management practices.
Contention
Notable discussions surrounding SB419 center on the potential effectiveness of financial compensation in driving significant change in land management practices. While proponents argue that the funding will enhance farmers' and landowners' capabilities to contribute to carbon sequestration, some critics are concerned about the adequacy of the proposed budget and whether it will be sufficient to incentivize the desired actions. The timing of the bill's implementation, with an effective date set for July 1, 2050, raises questions about long-term commitment and accountability in achieving stated climate goals.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.