Hawaii Green Fee Funds Shift: Senators Override Council

Hawaii's Green Fee program, established to protect natural resources and mitigate disaster risks, is undergoing a significant reshuffling of its initial $130 million in project funding. Powerful state senators have proposed replacing approximately half of the projects recommended by an advisory council with their own priorities.

These new Senate-backed proposals include funding for a food and product innovation network, state Department of Education ADA compliance, and a sports and signature events study. Potential eliminations from the advisory council's list include reforestation efforts, homeowner high-wind damage reduction, and cesspool conversion projects.

Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz, chair of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, argued that some council-recommended projects are not set up for timely spending. He stated that the Legislature should not hold onto funds unnecessarily. The Senate's amendments were incorporated into House Bill 1800, which has passed the full Senate and is now heading to a conference committee for final negotiation with the House.

Jeff Mikulina, chair of the advisory council, expressed surprise at the Senate's decision, noting the council's rigorous process and concerns that this shift could undermine public support for the program. Act 96, which established the Green Fee program, includes protecting natural resources, improving resilience against disasters, enhancing visitor experiences, and mitigating tourism's environmental impact. The final budget bill is expected to be determined by the end of the legislative session on May 8.