Hawaii House Bill HB3

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/25
• Refer: 1/21/25
• Report Pass: 1/30/25
• Refer: 1/30/25
• Report Pass: 2/10/25
• Refer: 2/10/25
• Report Pass: 2/28/25
• Engrossed: 3/4/25
• Refer: 3/6/25
• Report Pass: 3/18/25
• Refer: 3/18/25
• Report Pass: 4/2/25
• Refer: 4/14/25
• Report Pass: 4/24/25
• Enrolled: 5/1/25
• Chaptered: 5/27/25
• Passed: 5/27/25

Caption

Relating To Beach Management On The North Shore Of Oahu.

Impact

The bill also designates a fiscal appropriation of $1,000,000 for the University of Hawaii's use in developing the beach management plan. This funding, sourced from the general revenues of the State of Hawaii, highlights the state's commitment to managing coastal resources and responding effectively to shoreline issues. Importantly, it ensures that any unspent funds by June 30, 2026, will lapse, driving an urgency for the program to efficiently allocate the appropriated resources within the stipulated timeframe.

Summary

House Bill No. 3 relates specifically to beach management on the North Shore of Oahu, aiming to strengthen the focus on environmental sustainability and coastal management in this region. The bill amends a previous act by extending the deadline for the University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program to submit a North Shore beach management plan to both the Governor and Legislature. The new deadline is set for December 1, 2026, which gives the program additional time to develop an effective plan tailored to the unique characteristics and challenges of the specified coastal area from Sunset Point to Kapoʻo (Sharks Cove).

Sentiment

Discussion around HB3 has generally been positive, particularly among environmental advocates and members of the academic community involved in coastal management. Supporters emphasize the importance of the bill for preserving the ecological integrity of Hawaii's beaches and promoting sustainable tourism. Concerns mainly come from individuals wary of lengthy planning processes and whether the proposed measures will adequately address pressing coastal erosion and ecological challenges in a timely manner.

Contention

A point of contention that might arise is the effectiveness of extending the deadline and whether the appropriated funds will be sufficient to address the complexities of beach management. Critics could argue that additional timelines may further delay necessary actions regarding local environmental concerns. The discussions surrounding the bill will likely reflect broader conflicts involving balancing resource allocation, community interests, and state-level decision-making in environmental issues.