Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HB1615

Introduced
1/21/26  
Refer
1/26/26  
Report Pass
2/17/26  
Refer
2/17/26  
Report Pass
3/6/26  
Engrossed
3/10/26  
Refer
3/12/26  
Report Pass
3/30/26  

Caption

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

Impact

The establishment of the Office of Marine Affairs will facilitate the development of a comprehensive marine affairs strategy that encompasses various aspects such as research, education, ecosystem management, and coastal resilience. It is tasked with developing technology-driven industries that promote economic growth while maintaining environmental sustainability. The bill also provides for a marine affairs coordinator to oversee and implement these strategies effectively. By doing so, it aligns with the state's commitment to modernize its economic policies in response to growing global opportunities in the marine sector.

Summary

House Bill 1615 aims to establish Hawaii as a designated ocean cluster, promoting the state's unique capabilities in marine and aquatic-related industries. The bill recognizes the significance of the blue economy, which involves the sustainable use of ocean resources to promote economic growth, job creation, and ecosystem preservation. By leveraging Hawaii's strategic location, cultural heritage, and existing marine businesses, the state seeks to harness and expand this lucrative sector. The bill proposes the creation of an Office of Marine Affairs within the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation to govern and administer initiatives related to the marine economy.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1615 appears to be supportive among stakeholders interested in economic development and environmental stewardship. Proponents highlight the potential for job creation and the strengthening of Hawaii's position as a leader in marine industries. However, concerns may arise regarding how the designation of an ocean cluster will be implemented, particularly in relation to existing regulatory frameworks and the integration of Indigenous knowledge into modern practices. This aspect may stir debate between traditional stakeholders and those advocating for rapid development in the sector.

Contention

A notable point of contention includes the transference of functions from the existing Governor's Advisory Committee on Marine Affairs to the newly established Office, which may create concerns about job security and the continuity of existing initiatives. Additionally, as the bill emphasizes the significance of technology in the blue economy, some may question the balance between technological advancements and traditional maritime practices that have cultural significance in Hawaii. Ensuring that the benefits of this economic strategy reach local communities while protecting traditional practices will be critical to the bill’s successful implementation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

HI HB454

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

HI HB1176

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

HI SB992

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

HI HB1011

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

HI SB1330

Relating To The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation.

HI SB378

Relating To The Hawaii Housing Finance And Development Corporation.

HI SB771

Relating To The Hawaii Housing Finance And Development Corporation.

HI HB921

Relating To The Hawaii Housing Finance And Development Corporation.

HI SCR35

Requesting The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation To Initiate The Planning Of A Health Care Technology Hub In Kakaako To Accelerate The Adoption Of Health Care Technology And Promote The Development And Growth Of Hawaii's Highly Skilled Health Care Workforce.

HI HB606

Relating To The Department Of Hawaiian Homelands.

Similar Bills

CA ACA2

Legislature: retirement.

CA SB699

Legislature: constitutional course.

MI HR0041

A resolution to direct the Clerk of the House of Representatives to only present to the Governor enrolled House bills finally passed by both houses of the One Hundred Third Legislature.

TX HB1615

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain local laws concerning water and wastewater special districts, including a conforming amendment.

AK SCR1

Art. Ii, Sec. 16, Const: Veto Recon

TX HB1620

Relating to nonsubstantive additions to, revisions of, and corrections in enacted codes, to the nonsubstantive codification or disposition of various laws omitted from enacted codes, and to conforming codifications enacted by the 88th Legislature to other Acts of that legislature.

CA AB26

Eliminate the Politicians’ Perks Act of 2025.

NJ S1701

Requires legislative approval of changes to core curriculum content standards and Statewide assessments.