Hawaii Senate Bill SCR147

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/12/25

Caption

Urging The State To Support The Transfer Of The Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation And Adaptation Commission From The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To The Office Of Planning And Sustainable Development For Administrative Purposes.

Impact

The proposed transfer aims to leverage the strengths of the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development to more effectively administer the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission. This change is significant as it reflects an organizational shift that may improve focus on sustainability initiatives and climate resilience. Supporters believe this realignment will enhance resource management, planning, and execution of policies designed to combat climate-related challenges Hawaii faces. Additionally, it positions the state to adopt a more proactive stance towards environmental adaptation strategies.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 147 (SCR147) urges the State of Hawaii to support the transfer of the Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission from the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development (OPSD) for administrative purposes. This initiative seeks to enhance the state's ability to address critical climate change impacts such as sea level rise, coastal erosion, drought, wildfires, and loss of biodiversity. By facilitating this transfer, the resolution advocates for more efficient governance related to environmental planning and sustainability.

Contention

While the resolution appears to have support from various stakeholders interested in climate resilience, it could provoke discussions regarding jurisdiction and accountability between different state agencies. Questions may arise about the effectiveness of such a transfer, including whether the OPSD has adequate resources and authority to manage the expanded responsibilities this shift entails. The discussions may involve balancing environmental priorities with the operational capabilities of both the DLNR and OPSD, raising concerns over potential bureaucratic complications that could affect the timely implementation of climate strategies.