Bills: SB18

Keywords: greenhouse gas emissions, environmental regulation, air quality, climate policy, sustainability, 996, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Hawaii residents use only electricity, but 75% of all people across the country use both electricity and gas
• apples-to-apples comparison is looking at Hawaii's electricity versus the nation's electricity and gas
• across the country use both electricity across the country use both electricity and<00:58:50.799><c> gas
• 51.920><c> So,</c><00:58:52.079><c> an</c><00:58:52.400><c> applesto</c><00:58:52.960><c> apples</c> and gas
• So, an applesto apples and gas.

Bills: HB1617

Keywords: carbon emissions, tax credit, fossil fuel, agriculture, food security, environmental tax, greenhouse gas, 910, house, all

Summary: The committees heard testimony on HB 1949, which would create a public dashboard for the green fee to improve transparency and accountability. Testimony from the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission, the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development, and many community and conservation groups was generally supportive, with several speakers urging that the governor’s project recommendations remain largely intact and that community-driven projects continue to guide spending. One amendment was suggested to place the dashboard at the Department of Budget and Finance for fiscal expertise, while other testimony favored keeping it with the commission. Members asked about procurement, ETS involvement, recurring hosting costs, and whether the dashboard could be funded from green fee revenues; the commission said it could work with ETS and that green fee funds could reasonably be used. The committees then voted to pass HB 1949 with amendments. The committees also heard HB 2618, which would require the governor to submit a separate bill for amounts tied to any increase in the transient accommodations tax and, in later discussion, was expanded into a broader restructuring of future green fee allocations. Testimony from the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission, Hawaii Reef and Ocean Coalition, and others supported the bill and emphasized the value of more predictable, dedicated funding for conservation and climate-related work. During decision-making, the chair described amendments creating several special funds under DLNR, including a watershed biodiversity and wildfire risk reduction fund, an aquatic resources conservation fund, a coastal restoration fund, a cesspool conversion revolving loan fund, and a green fee special fund for remaining revenues, with recommended amounts discussed for some of the funds. The committees voted to pass HB 2618 with amendments. The hearing then moved to HB 1644, a consumer protection measure for residential solar sales that would require compliance with consumer protection laws, licensing or contractor affiliation for sellers, and a standardized disclosure form. Testimony in support came from the Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority, DCCA’s Office of Consumer Protection, Kauai Island Utility Cooperative, the Hawaii Solar Energy Association, and several solar companies and individuals. Supporters said the bill would address complaints about third-party sales practices and improve disclosure, especially around financing. The committee then began hearing HB 2243, which would require electric utilities to provide public, electronic customer bill impact analyses and annual reports to the Public Utilities Commission; the Division of Consumer Advocacy and the PUC offered comments supporting the measure’s intent.

Bills: HB74, HB175

Keywords: environmental project, public money, political subdivision, greenhouse gas emissions, federal law compliance, renewable energy, water conservation, retroactive child support, child conception, paternity, family law, health care expenses

Keywords: KY LRC YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNJty1ZiSDw, 2026-06-21T07:17:08+00:00, 2.2.24, Data collected via generic collector engine, Meeting Start 00:00:00 Attendance Roll Call 00:00:05 Committee Member Comments 00:01:10 Approval of Minutes 00:04:48 Presentation and Public Hearing on the LIHEAP Block Grant Application 00:05:15 Explanation of US EPA’s Rule on Greenhouse Gas Standards 00:24:20 Discussion of Legal Challenges to the US EPA’s Rule on Greenhouse Gas Standards 00:53:47, 958, all, 2.2.42, 2.1.47

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:52:36.200><c> gas,</c> reduction of greenhouse gas, reduction of greenhouse gas, right?
• </c><00:53:08.960><c> gas</c> statutes, but we do have greenhouse gas statutes, but we do have greenhouse
• ><c> with</c> greenhouse gas emissions associated with greenhouse gas emissions associated with them,
• </c><00:53:31.280><c> gas</c> uh shoot now a fact and a greenhouse gas uh shoot now a fact and a greenhouse
• </c><00:58:56.840><c> gas</c> others have used greenhouse gas others have used greenhouse gas emissions

Bills: HF4560, HF4559, HF2317, HF3179, HF4880, HF2862, HF4374

Keywords: Public Utilities Commission, PUC, energy regulation, utility regulation, electric utility, public utility, rate case, multiyear rate plan, decoupling, rate decoupling, greenhouse gas, social cost of carbon, environmental cost, resource planning, certificate of need, distributed renewable energy, interconnection, budget billing, electronic filing, contested case

Bills: HF9

Keywords: energy policy, renewable energy standard, carbon-free standard, solar standard, hydroelectric, hydropower, electric utility, Public Utilities Commission, PUC, renewable portfolio standard, carbon capture and sequestration, CCS, greenhouse gas emissions, climate policy, nuclear power plant, certificate of need, fossil fuel plant demolition, utility compliance delay, beneficial electrification, sales tax exemption

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:46:19.880><c> And</c> significant spike to gas prices. And significant spike to gas prices.
• The state has an obligation from the NaPali Settlement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions for our future
• The state has an obligation from the NaPali Settlement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions for our future
• gas analysis, but there's no question we're going to have to import.
• gas analysis, but there's no question we're going to have to import.

Bills: HB1736, HB1620, HB1695

Keywords: animal control, spay and neuter, pet overpopulation, sterilization, counties funding, tax designation, veterinary care, electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, energy policy, rebate program, environmental impact, renewable fuels, sustainable aviation fuel, tax credit, greenhouse gas emissions, local production, energy resilience, agricultural innovation, job creation

Summary: The committee heard testimony on HB 1737, which clarifies allowable uses in agricultural districts for farm dwellings and farm employee housing, and HB 1604 HD2, which creates an agricultural workforce housing working group within the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity. Testimony on HB 1737 was overwhelmingly supportive, with county agriculture officials, the Hawaii Farm Bureau, and Hawaii Farmers Union backing the measure; one witness asked for a definition of “affordable” to guard against misuse of farm housing. For HB 1604, the Department of Agriculture, Hawaii Farm Bureau, Housing Hawaii’s Future, Hawaii Farmers Union, and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs supported the bill, with OHA requesting disaggregated data and a seat on the working group. Committee discussion focused on housing shortages, possible misuse, affordability, and whether innovative housing models such as modular, tiny, and container homes should be considered. The committee then took action on both measures. HB 1737 HD3 was recommended to pass with amendments that would limit farm employee housing to agricultural employees and their immediate family members actively engaged in the farm operation, add a grandfathering provision for existing permitted housing, preserve county zoning authority, clarify that ag tourism must be secondary and not occur in employee housing, delete a square-footage-per-acre ratio, and defer the effective date to July 1, 2050. HB 1604 HD2 was also recommended to pass with amendments adding OHA and a housing-shortage organization to the working group, expanding its scope to include modular, tiny, and container homes and permitting/zoning streamlining, and deferring the effective date to July 1, 2050. Both motions were adopted unanimously by the members present. The joint hearing then moved to HB 1736, which would establish a spay and neuter special fund and require sterilization and declaration provisions for cats, with some discussion of dogs. DLNR and the Hawaiian Humane Society supported the bill, while Pacific Pet Alliance objected to the broader requirements and the inclusion of dogs; the Hawaiian Humane Society and American Bird Conservancy supported cat-focused sterilization and the special fund, while some testifiers opposed mandatory sterilization as too costly or intrusive. Members raised questions about toxoplasmosis, trap-neuter-release, enforcement, neighbor-island access, and funding needs, and DLNR indicated additional funding and third-party contracting would likely be needed. The transcript then began HB 1620 HD2 on energy, which would increase the environmental response energy and food security tax and shift funds from the hydrogen fueling subaccount to EV charging infrastructure; state agencies generally stood on written testimony in support, while the Tax Foundation objected to special fund earmarks and noted the bill raises only one part of the barrel tax structure.

Bills: HB1694, HB1695, HB1986, HB1797, HB1879, HB2034

Keywords: sustainable aviation fuel, tax credit, greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy, Hawaii, economic development, carbon footprint, aviation sector, renewable fuels, local production, energy resilience, agricultural innovation, job creation, clean fuel standard, alternative fuels, carbon intensity, emission reduction, greenhouse gases, transportation, autonomous vehicles

Summary: The committee opened by explaining hearing procedures, including a two-minute oral testimony limit and that decision-making would follow after testimony. It then took up SB 20008, which would set 55 mph as the maximum speed limit on all parts of the DKI/Saddle Road highway. The bill’s introducer described it as a response to safety concerns and noted prior public opposition when the speed limit was lowered from 60 mph; the Hawaii Police Department was listed in opposition, while DOT and several individuals testified in support. No vote was taken during the portion provided. The committee next heard SB 20009, requiring new plates/tags or emblems for used motor vehicles transferred between private individuals, and SB 2026, which would require drivers approaching stationary vehicles on the shoulder or roadside to slow down and, if necessary, change lanes. The Attorney General supported SB 2026 but recommended narrowing and clarifying the language by removing references to shoulder/roadside, collision or mechanical problem, and other limiting definitions so the duty would apply more broadly and be easier to enforce; AAA and OMA also supported the measure. Members discussed the practical need for a mandatory move-over rule, especially for roadside workers and tow operators, and the committee heard concerns about enforceability on two-lane roads and in accident scenes. SB 2053 was then heard, authorizing electronic signatures on supporting documents used to transfer ownership of total-loss vehicles to insurers without notarization and requiring insurers to indemnify the finance director for claims arising from those electronic title issuances. The Hawaii Insurers Council, Copart, the City and County of Honolulu, and others supported the bill, with Copart describing it as a modernization that would reduce delays for total-loss settlements; technical amendments were requested. The committee also heard SB 2172, which would allow all-terrain vehicles to operate at night if equipped with lights and a slow-moving vehicle emblem, adjust helmet requirements, define utility terrain vehicles, and include ATVs in motor vehicle insurance law. DOT said it could support the bill only if limited to low-speed areas, and the insurance industry warned it could create a new insurance scheme; the City and County of Honolulu opposed while the Hawaii Farm Bureau and an individual supported. Finally, SB 2253 was introduced to expand first-degree negligent injury to include injuries negligently inflicted by intoxicated drivers, with DOT, county prosecutors, and the Honolulu Prosecutor’s Office in support; Honolulu prosecutors said they would oppose a proposed amendment because they wanted the language to preserve the offense as a lesser included offense tied to negligent homicide.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> gas peers. gas peers.
• ,</c> technology types including nuclear, gas, technology types including nuclear, gas, geothermal<00
• That was a grant from the greenhouse gas reduction fund, Coalition for Green Capital, and our Solar for
• </c><01:02:18.400><c> gas</c> was a grant from the greenhouse gas was a grant from the greenhouse gas
• </c><01:21:57.760><c> Gas</c> need. And life is getting expensive. Gas need.

Bills: HF4059, HF76

Keywords: climate change, greenhouse gas emissions, financing, sustainability, environmental policy, renewable energy, Minnesota Climate Innovation Financing Authority, earned incentive release credit, release credits, supervised release, corrections, Minnesota Department of Corrections, sentence reduction, good time, prison time, incarceration, violent offenses, murder, criminal sexual conduct, sex offenses

Bills: SB38, SB46, SB18

Keywords: SB38, pet food, registered pet food, registration fee, fees, sunset repeal, repeal of repeal, revenue, state fee, business regulation, animal feed, pet food registration, New Mexico, SB46, organic waste, solid waste, waste diversion, composting, compost feedstock, waste characterization study

Transcript Highlights:

• This is strictly limited to greenhouse gas emissions into climate change. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
• This is solely focused on future claims for greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
• gas.
• The only thing this pertains to is a climate change case based off of greenhouse gas emissions.
• The only thing this pertains to is a climate change case based off of greenhouse gas emissions.

Bills: SB480, HB621, HB637, HB804, HB841, HB1056

Keywords: fishing gear, Oyster Bayou, shrimping, regulation, marine resources, HB621, Act 658, renewable energy, recycling, decommissioning, wind energy, solar power, solar facilities, wind turbines, energy infrastructure, end-of-life disposal, universal waste, recyclable materials, waste reduction, Department of Environmental Quality

Summary: The Senate Committee on Natural Resources met on May 14 and approved the April 29 minutes. The committee first heard HB 1056, which authorizes transfer of certain state property in Natchitoches Parish tied to a former school building now considered dilapidated and a nuisance; it was reported favorably. HB 841, described as a landman code of conduct bill and expropriation-related measure, was voluntarily deferred so the sponsor could work on additional changes over the interim. The committee then took up HB 804, the Louisiana Energy Protection Act, which would bar future lawsuits seeking climate-change damages against fossil fuel companies and other entities. Supporters said it would prevent speculative climate litigation while preserving legitimate claims for permit violations and other existing statutory causes of action. Opponents from coastal litigation and the Sierra Club argued the bill was drafted too broadly and could affect legacy cases, property rights, and regulatory enforcement; the committee adopted Amendment 3875 to grandfather existing filed cases and make the bill effective upon gubernatorial signature, then reported the bill favorably as amended. HB 621, requiring recycling of decommissioned renewable energy infrastructure and updating the state’s waste framework for modern energy components, was reported favorably. HB 637, which revises oil field site restoration fees and lowers rates for marginal, stripper, low-pressure, and incapable wells, was also reported favorably. Finally, SB 480, as amended, allowed boats to anchor in Oyster Bayou so long as they are not within an oyster lease and someone remains on board; the committee adopted the amendment and reported the bill favorably before adjourning.

Transcript Highlights:

• This is strictly limited to greenhouse gas emissions into climate change. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
• This is solely focused on future claims for greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
• gas.
• The only thing this pertains to is a climate change case based off of greenhouse gas emissions.
• The only thing this pertains to is a climate change case based off of greenhouse gas emissions.

Bills: SB480, HB621, HB637, HB804, HB841, HB1056

Keywords: fishing gear, Oyster Bayou, shrimping, regulation, marine resources, HB621, Act 658, renewable energy, recycling, decommissioning, wind energy, solar power, solar facilities, wind turbines, energy infrastructure, end-of-life disposal, universal waste, recyclable materials, waste reduction, Department of Environmental Quality

Transcript Highlights:

• Garrison Curton on greenhouse gas emissions. Provides $1 greenhouse gas emissions.
• </c><00:23:36.800><c> gas</c> that over, you know, that greenhouse gas that over, you know, that greenhouse
• <00:38:58.400><c> gas</c><00:38:59.360><c> um</c> greenhouse gas um greenhouse gas um sectors<00:39:00.600
• </c><00:41:03.720><c> gas</c> because of the additional greenhouse gas because of the additional greenhouse
• </c><01:08:15.240><c> gas</c> uh or I guess verify the greenhouse gas uh or I guess verify the greenhouse

Bills: HB1986, HB1694, HB1695, HB2030, HB1673

Keywords: clean fuel standard, alternative fuels, carbon intensity, emission reduction, greenhouse gases, transportation, sustainable aviation fuel, tax credit, greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy, Hawaii, economic development, carbon footprint, aviation sector, renewable fuels, local production, energy resilience, agricultural innovation, job creation, clean vehicles

Summary: The committee on Energy and Environmental Protection heard testimony on three measures related to cleaner fuels. On HB 1986, which would require the Department of Transportation to adopt rules for a clean fuel standard by January 1, 2028 and include reporting and public informational sessions, testimony was largely supportive from state commissions, fuel companies, airlines, and other industry and advocacy groups. Supporters said the bill would create a long-term framework for reducing emissions and developing cleaner fuels in Hawaii. Opposition came from Energy Justice Network, which argued that so-called clean fuels are not carbon-free, would be costly, and could delay a needed transition to electrification. The department later said it was monitoring the bill and was concerned about costs. No vote or final action was taken in the hearing. The committee then heard HB 1694, a sustainable aviation fuel tax credit bill that would provide a per-gallon credit for SAF, cap annual credits at $20 million, require reporting, and sunset in 2035. The Department of Taxation testified on administration, while the Department of Transportation said it supported the measure as a short-term strategy to jump-start SAF until the clean fuel standard ramps up. Airlines, fuel companies, the Hawaii Food Industry Association, the Hawaii Renewable Fuels Coalition, and others supported the bill, saying it would send a market signal, help close the cost gap with conventional jet fuel, and encourage local production and investment. Opponents, including Energy Justice Network, Life of the Land, and Ted Metros, argued the bill would be expensive, could lock in a transitional fuel system, and would not produce enough fuel to meet demand. Committee members asked about the likely impact and the share of total fuel demand the credit could support; DOT said the supported gallons would be only a very small percentage of annual demand and that the credit was intended to work alongside the future clean fuel standard. Finally, the committee took up HB 1695 HD1 on renewable fuel, which expands the renewable fuels production tax credit. Testimony was again mixed but generally supportive from the Department of Transportation, Department of Taxation, Island Energy Services, airlines, the Tax Foundation, Pana Pacific, and the Hawaii Farm Bureau. Supporters said the measure would encourage local feedstock production, create agricultural opportunities, and help attract investment in renewable fuels. Pana Pacific requested an amendment to explicitly include camelina in the definition of renewable feedstocks. Opponents, including Energy Justice Network and Life of the Land, repeated concerns about cost, imported feedstocks, and the risk of undermining full electrification goals. The hearing transcript does not show any vote or final committee action on HB 1694 or HB 1695 HD1.

Bills: SB5987, SB6170

Keywords: SB 5987, SB5987, Fairfax Bridge, State Route 165, SR 165, Carbon River, WSDOT, Washington State Department of Transportation, emergency bridge replacement, infrastructure failure, transportation emergency, climate commitment account, climate investment account, clean energy, climate funding, greenhouse gas reduction, environmental justice, renewable energy, building electrification, industrial decarbonization

Summary: The Senate Transportation Committee began with a work session on the Fairfax Carbon River SR-165 Bridge closure and replacement. Wilkeson Mayor Jamie Pololi described the bridge as a long-standing state investment that was closed after years of documented deterioration, saying the closure severed access to Mount Rainier-area recreation, hurt local businesses and municipal revenue, and created emergency access problems for Fairfax and nearby communities. Pierce County’s Melissa Littleton and WSDOT’s Steve Rourke said the bridge is 105 years old, was weight-limited before closing, and is now being studied for replacement; WSDOT outlined seven alternatives, said greenfield options were ruled out, and explained that the project is in early geotechnical and pre-NEPA planning, with construction still estimated to take years. Senators asked about detour length, emergency response, historic-preservation issues, and whether the project could be accelerated; WSDOT said the bridge’s status and the need for a new alignment limit the usefulness of emergency authority, and that additional funding will be needed beyond the $7 million already spent from preservation funds. The committee then held a public hearing on SB 5987, which would declare the Fairfax Bridge closure an emergency, direct WSDOT to restore access across SR-165 as soon as possible, grant the transportation secretary limited emergency authorities, exempt the work from Executive Order 25-07 project labor agreement requirements, and make the act effective immediately. Supporters, including the mayor, local residents, recreation advocates, and trail groups, said the bill would recognize the closure as a public safety and access emergency and help restore access to public lands, businesses, and emergency routes. WSDOT testified in opposition to the bill’s practical effect, warning it could create false expectations because most delays are driven by federal NEPA and historic-preservation processes that the secretary cannot waive. The committee reported 606 people signed in support, one opposed, and two other. The committee also heard SB 6170, which would raise the dollar limits for work performed by state highway crews and for certain procurement thresholds that allow small, veteran-, minority-, and women-owned businesses to compete. The bill would increase the state-force limit from $60,000 to $100,000 in normal circumstances and from $100,000 to $160,000 in emergencies, with similar increases for related contracting thresholds; staff said the current limits have not been updated since 2005 and the bill has no fiscal impact. Senator King, the prime sponsor, said the change would better match inflation and help state workers do more routine and emergency work in-house. WFSE and WSDOT supported the bill, saying it would help maintenance crews keep up with rising costs while preserving opportunities for outside contractors; Senator Valdez asked whether it would affect minority- and women-owned contracting programs, and WSDOT said it did not expect an adverse impact but would monitor it. Public testimony was overwhelmingly supportive, with 55 signed in favor and none opposed.

Transcript Highlights:

• We want to decrease our greenhouse gas emissions, but we also don't want emissions leakage.
• But at the same time, we want to reduce our greenhouse gas goals.
• Carbon intensity is the amount of life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions per unit of energy of fuel.
• Carbon intensity is the amount of life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions per unit of energy of fuel.
• The net effect is increasing global greenhouse gas emissions, and that's what we all want to avoid.

Bills: SB6172, SB6246, SB5932

Keywords: Washington climate policy, greenhouse gas, GHG emissions, cap-and-invest, carbon market, emissions trading, allowances, covered entity, coal-fired power plant, coal plant, electric utility, electric generating facility, fossil fuels, natural gas, imported electricity, emissions leakage, air pollution, renewable energy transition, industrial emissions, railroad emissions

Summary: The Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee heard public testimony on three bills. SB 6246 would direct Ecology to recommend a long-term allowance allocation approach for emissions-intensive trade-exposed facilities under the Climate Commitment Act, require facility-specific emissions and decarbonization reporting, and condition future no-cost allowances on those submissions. Supporters said the bill preserves the CCA’s anti-leakage intent while improving accountability and planning for industrial decarbonization; opponents argued it adds burdens, may threaten competitiveness, and could worsen leakage or job losses. Ecology said it generally supports the bill’s approach but recommended streamlining duplicative reporting and noted the work would require significant agency resources. No vote was taken. SB 5932 would provide certainty for low-to-zero-carbon alternative jet fuel production by changing how electricity carbon intensity is calculated for SAF facilities under the Clean Fuels Program and by setting an earlier trigger date for SAF tax preferences, July 1, 2031, if the production threshold is not met first. The bill’s sponsor and industry witnesses from 12 and the City of Moses Lake said it would support investment in Washington’s first SAF facility and future expansion. Ecology and climate advocates opposed the Clean Fuels Program changes, saying they would weaken incentives for new renewable electricity and could increase pollution or create special treatment for one fuel, though Ecology said it had no position on the 2031 tax date. The committee heard extensive testimony but took no vote. SB 6172 would end remaining statutory preferences for a coal-fired generating plant after its scheduled closure date, including the cap-and-invest exemption, limits on additional state emission standards, and a sales tax exemption for coal used at the plant. The sponsor said the bill simply removes now-unneeded transition provisions and affirms Washington’s move away from coal. Environmental groups strongly supported the bill, while utility and business witnesses were generally neutral but raised concerns about possible allowance-market impacts and potential costs to ratepayers if the plant were ever called on in an emergency. The hearing closed without a vote.

Transcript Highlights:

• We into nitrogen gas so that it isn't into nitrogen gas so that it isn't harmful.<00:16:34.720><c> But
• It would improve the stability of the electricity grid and reduce the state's greenhouse gas emissions
• Julie Anker with Hawaii Gas in strong opposition to removing demand gas water heaters from the current
• For these reasons, Hawaii Gas respectfully urges the committee to retain the existing variances for gas
• For these reasons, Hawaii Gas respectfully urges the committee to retain the existing variances for gas

Bills: HB2245, HB1618, HB1985, HB2079, HB1921, HB2232, HB1567, HB1984, HB2608, HB2435, HB1623, HB1774

Keywords: wastewater systems, denitrification, environment, pollution, coral reefs, nearshore waters, public health, shoreline regulations, cesspool conversion, cesspool replacement, wastewater, sewer connection, sewerage systems, septic system, pollution control, water pollution control revolving fund, Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority, HGIA, low-interest loans, forgivable loans

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several bills related to cesspools, wastewater, and clean water protections. On HB 2245, which would require additional denitrification capacity in wastewater systems near shorelines, the Department of Health offered comments, DLNR supported the bill, and multiple environmental and ocean groups testified in strong support, emphasizing nitrogen pollution from cesspools, reef damage, and the need to prioritize shoreline systems. Testifiers said the bill should move forward, with technical issues such as GIS mapping to be worked out later. No member questions or votes were taken on this measure. On HB 1985, concerning the Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority and accessible conversion loans for cesspool homeowners, HGI supported the bill and suggested making the program a revolving loan fund; DLNR and the Public Utilities Commission also supported it, while the Department of Health supported the concept. Committee discussion focused on program design, possible forgivable loans for low-income homeowners, and whether the program should be administered through existing infrastructure rather than a new procurement process. The committee then moved to HB 1985’s companion discussion on cesspool conversion outreach and deadline extensions, where DLNR and DOH supported outreach but DLNR and ocean advocates expressed reservations about extending deadlines, especially for financial hardship, saying that issue would need careful work. The committee also heard testimony on HB 2079, which would reestablish the accessible upgrades inversion or connection income tax credit. The Department of Taxation raised administrative and fraud concerns about refundable credits, explaining that nonrefundable credits reduce tax debt while refundable credits can function like cash payments and require more oversight. DOH, DLNR, OPSD, counties, Hawaii Realtors, and environmental groups supported the bill, with one ocean coalition witness saying tax credits could help homeowners but grants would be preferable. Members asked about the difference between refundable credits and grants and about whether the credit would cover sewer connections versus individual wastewater systems. The committee then heard brief testimony on HB 1921, allowing certain priority-three cesspools to add a bedroom, with support from Hawaii Realtors and some other groups and no opposition discussion. HB 2232, preserving state water-quality protections at least as strong as the federal Clean Water Act, drew support from DOH and ocean advocates, with no questions. The committee also began hearing energy-related bills, including HB 1567 on energy equity and HB 1984 on self-certification for distributed energy resources, with a mix of support and some opposition or requested amendments, but no votes were taken in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• . >> So the more gas you buy, the more fossil fuels you buy, the more the tax is going to impact it.
• So the more<00:54:10.800><c> gas</c><00:54:11.119><c> you</c><00:54:11.359><c> buy,</c><00:54:12.240>
• <c> the</c><00:54:12.400><c> more</c><00:54:13.520><c> uh</c> more gas you buy, the more uh more gas

Bills: SB2309, SB2317, SB2318, SB2319, SB2321, SB2323, SB2332, SB2405, SB2485

Keywords: agricultural loans, financial support, Hawaii agriculture, food security, revolving fund, agriculture, insurance, small producers, state support, biosecurity, farm coverage, public-private partnerships, agricultural policy, agricultural statistics, data collection, Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, economic analysis, market development, grant funding, climate resiliency

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several agriculture-related measures, beginning with SB 2309, which would require the agricultural loan division to sell portions of its loan portfolio and use the proceeds to expand the agriculture loan revolving fund. The Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity and the Hawaii Farm Bureau supported the bill, along with several other organizations and individuals. A committee question focused on the risk of not finding a qualified buyer for the loan portfolio; DAB said a mandatory sale of the full amount could force a less favorable rate, while flexibility to sell different amounts could produce a more equitable return. The measure drew eight supporters and no opposition. The committee then took up SB 2317, which directs DAB to study insurance coverage for small producers and report back to the Legislature. DAB and multiple farm groups supported the bill. In response to a question about cost, DAB estimated about $250,000 would be needed, with the study likely covering crop, health, and liability insurance. The next measure, SB 2318, would establish an agriculture statistics program in statute. DAB said it strongly supported the bill and could ramp up quickly if positions were provided; the committee discussed whether a first report could be completed by year’s end if the bill became law midyear, and DAB said yes. SB 2319, which would fund and make permanent a full-time grant writer position at DAB, also drew strong support from DAB, the Hawaii Farm Bureau, Ulupono Initiative, the Hawaii Cattlemen’s Council, the local food coalition, and others, with testifiers emphasizing the position’s return on investment and success in bringing in federal funds. The committee also heard SB 2321, establishing a two-year pilot program to respond to the twoline spittlebug. DAB, ranching groups, and many others supported the bill, citing the pest’s spread and the need to act before it becomes unmanageable. A DAB pest control manager said he would need to research past response details and provide them later. Members emphasized the importance of early intervention. For SB 2323, which creates a farmland transition commission to study barriers to farmland access and recommend solutions, DAB offered comments and support for the intent, while farm groups generally supported the concept but raised concerns about the proposed age range and whether a separate commission was necessary. DAB said the Board of Agriculture likely would not have the capacity to perform the commission’s duties and estimated there would be costs to establish it, though no figure was available at the hearing. Finally, the committee heard SB 2332, which reestablishes the agriculture and food security special fund, creates a carbon emissions tax and dividend fund, gradually raises carbon-related tax rates, and provides a refundable carbon cashback credit. DAB supported the measure and deferred to Taxation on details; the Department of Taxation said it would stand on its comments, and the Attorney General’s office offered comments and recommendations. Carbon Cashback Hawaii and the County of Hawaii Department of Research and Development supported the bill, arguing it would reduce emissions, protect lower-income households, and be relatively simple to administer.

Bills: SB 312, SB 945, SB 946, SB 1367, SB 1861, SB 2044, SB 2337, SB 2403, SB 2819, SJR 54

Keywords: public school funding, education, budget allocation, financial transparency, state law, local control, fiduciary responsibility, public retirement systems, investment management, proxy voting, financial factors, insurance, political shareholder proposals, fossil fuels, greenhouse gas emissions, environmental regulation, discrimination, credit extension, social credit, value-based standards

Transcript Highlights:

• condition of receiving no-cost allowances after January 2027, to provide information on the facility's greenhouse
• gas emissions, a decarbonization plan, and other information.

Bills: SB6124, SB6171, SB6284, SB5609, SB6172, SB6246, SB5932, SB6269, SB6223, SB5975

Keywords: appliance affordability, cost index, energy efficiency, consumer protection, Washington state, energy facilities, large energy consumers, regulation, environment, sustainability, artificial intelligence, data privacy, technological impacts, cultural resources, land use, environmental policy, exemptions, state laws, Washington climate policy, greenhouse gas

Summary: The Senate Environment, Energy, and Technology Committee took executive action on 11 bills, with staff briefing each measure and members considering multiple proposed substitutes and amendments. The committee advanced bills on an Appliance Affordability Index study (SB 624), emerging large energy use facilities/data centers (SB 6171), AI systems (SB 6284), cultural resource protection under SEPA (SB 5609), coal plant treatment under cap-and-invest and tax law (SB 6172), emissions-intensive trade-exposed facilities (SB 6246), low-to-zero-carbon alternative jet fuel production (SB 5932), motor fuel definitions (SB 6269), community-scaled weatherization projects (SB 6223), lead in cookware (SB 5975), and electric transmission system modernization (SB 5466). Several bills were described as technical or policy updates tied to climate, energy reliability, consumer protection, and land-use review. Members debated a number of substantive changes. On SB 6171, the committee rejected an amendment to remove the proposed fee on data centers and instead advanced a substitute that retained tariff, reporting, and utility-related provisions; testimony emphasized both competitiveness for data centers and ratepayer protection. On SB 6284, the committee advanced a substitute that refined definitions, added human-consideration language, extended risk-management duties to developers with exemptions for smaller entities and certain sectors, and clarified enforcement. On SB 5609, an amendment to delay or restructure cultural-resource requirements was not adopted, and the committee moved forward a substitute requiring local ordinances and a governor-led task force; supporters stressed protecting irreplaceable cultural resources, while opponents raised housing and implementation concerns. The committee also adopted an amendment to SB 6172 related to emergency DOE orders for a coal facility, then advanced the bill; it moved SB 6246 forward without amendment; and it adopted a substitute for SB 5932 intended to preserve tax incentive certainty for alternative jet fuel producers over a 10-year period. For SB 5975, the committee rejected one substitute and adopted another that tightened lead restrictions in cookware and shifted future regulation to the Safer Products Program. On SB 5466, the committee rejected several amendments on wildfire risk, corridor planning, landowner consultation, eminent domain, and liability, then advanced the proposed second substitute to Ways and Means. Most bills were reported out of committee with due pass recommendations, several to Ways and Means and others to Rules, and the meeting adjourned after all executive actions were completed.

Transcript Highlights:

• When asked about our gas tax, it would be great to say something like, yes, we have the third highest
• gas tax in the country, but look at what we get in exchange.
• gas emissions.
• gas emissions and vehicle miles traveled.
• So Washington has adopted legally binding climate commitments that require reductions in greenhouse gas

Bills: HB2550, HB2645, HB2109, HB2134, HB2323

Keywords: transit, community colleges, student transportation, free rides, public transportation, HB 2645, HB2645, Fairfax Bridge, State Route 165, SR 165, Carbon River, Washington State Department of Transportation, WSDOT, emergency infrastructure replacement, bridge collapse, bridge closure, transportation emergency, public safety, infrastructure repair, bridge replacement

Summary: The Transportation Committee held public hearings on House Bill 2550 and House Bill 2645, then later took executive action on House Bills 2109, 2134, and 2323. HB 2550 would require transit agencies receiving transit support grant funds to allow free transit for degree-seeking and certificate-seeking community and technical college students. Staff said the Department of Transportation saw no fiscal impact, while local government notes projected reduced fare revenue and added administrative costs, with an estimated $10 million to $12 million annual revenue loss. Rep. Jamila Taylor and student and transit advocates supported the bill as a way to reduce barriers to education, while the Washington State Transit Association said it supported the concept but raised implementation and eligibility concerns. Several students testified in favor, describing transit costs as a burden and saying free rides would improve access to school. HB 2645, as described in the substitute, would declare an emergency over the permanent closure of the Fairfax Bridge on State Route 165 and give WSDOT emergency authority to expedite replacement by waiving or suspending certain state requirements. Rep. Andrew Barkis said the bridge closure cut off residents and access to Mount Rainier and argued the situation warranted emergency action. Local officials, residents, recreation groups, and fire service representatives testified in support, emphasizing isolation, economic harm, and slower emergency response times. WSDOT acknowledged the closure’s impact and said it was moving forward with planning and design, but noted that much of the timeline is driven by federal requirements such as NEPA, historic preservation, and endangered species review; the agency said the bill would have limited effect on timelines. The committee then moved to executive session. In executive action, the committee adopted a technical substitute for HB 2109, which requires covered transport of tracked vehicles with mud or debris on public highways, and reported it out with a due pass recommendation by voice vote. It also adopted an amendment to HB 2134 updating which regional transportation planning organizations must include greenhouse gas and vehicle miles traveled reductions in regional plans, then passed the substitute bill on a 16-12 vote. Finally, the committee adopted amendments to HB 2323 creating the Blue Envelope Program for neurodiverse drivers during traffic stops, including broader terminology and a web-page/resource-sharing provision, and reported the substitute bill out unanimously by voice vote. The meeting ended with adjournment.