Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR16

Introduced
2/9/26  
Introduced
2/10/26  
Refer
2/13/26  
Report Pass
4/8/26  

Caption

Requesting The Division Of Aquatic Resources To Collaborate With The Department Of Education And State Public Charter School Commission To Develop And Propose A Framework For A Student Coral Stewardship Program.

Impact

If implemented, the Student Coral Stewardship Program would serve as an educational, voluntary, and non-enforceable framework focusing on public education, outreach, and the promotion of reef-safe sunscreen awareness at state beaches. This initiative is anticipated to strengthen student involvement in coral reef restoration efforts and emphasize the importance of community engagement in environmental stewardship. Moreover, it aligns with prior legislative actions, such as Act 104 from 2018, which restricts harmful sunscreens, signaling a concerted effort to protect marine ecosystems.

Summary

Senate Resolution 16 (SR16) requests the Division of Aquatic Resources in Hawaii to collaborate with the Department of Education and the State Public Charter School Commission for the development of a Student Coral Stewardship Program. This initiative aims to educate students about coral reef protection and promote awareness of reef-safe practices, notably concerning the use of mineral-based sunscreens. Through this resolution, the state acknowledges the critical role of coral reefs in its environment and economy while addressing the threats they face due to climate change and pollution.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SR16 appears to be largely positive, reflecting a proactive approach to environmental education and coral reef conservation. Stakeholders have expressed enthusiasm, recognizing the importance of engaging youth in sustainability efforts. The resolution captures a spirit of collaboration among various governmental and educational entities, fostering optimism about future environmental stewardship initiatives in Hawaii.

Contention

While there seems to be strong support for the idea of student-led coral stewardship, some concerns might arise regarding the practical implementation and funding of such programs. The nature of the initiative being educational and voluntary suggests that measuring its effectiveness and ensuring broad participation could present challenges. Additionally, the resolution bypasses enforcement mechanisms, which may lead to questions about accountability and the actual behavioral changes it aims to promote among the public.

Companion Bills

HI SCR19

Same As Requesting The Department Of Education And State Public Charter School Commission To Collaborate With The Division Of Aquatic Resources Of The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Develop And Propose A Framework For A Student Coral Stewardship Program.

HI HR15

Same As Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Collaborate With The Department Of Education And State Public Charter School Commission To Develop A Student Coral Stewardship Program.

Previously Filed As

HI SR95

Requesting The Department Of Education, In Collaboration With The Department Of Health And State Public Charter School Commission, To Conduct A Study On The Practices Of Managing Heat Exposure In Department And Charter Schools To Protect Students' Health During Outdoor Activities.

HI SCR114

Requesting The Department Of Education, In Collaboration With The Department Of Health And State Public Charter School Commission, To Conduct A Study On The Practices Of Managing Heat Exposure In Department And Charter Schools To Protect Students' Health During Outdoor Activities.

HI SR55

Requesting The Department Of Education And Department Of Health To Update Vaccination Forms And Recordkeeping For Public School And Charter School Students.

HI HCR186

Requesting The Department Of Education, In Collaboration With The Department Of Health And State Public Charter School Commission, To Conduct A Study On The Practices Of Managing Heat Exposure In Department And Charter Schools To Protect Students' Health During Outdoor Activities.

HI HR179

Requesting The Department Of Education, In Collaboration With The Department Of Health And State Public Charter School Commission, To Conduct A Study On The Practices Of Managing Heat Exposure In Department And Charter Schools To Protect Students' Health During Outdoor Activities.

HI SCR72

Requesting The Department Of Education And Department Of Health To Update Vaccination Forms And Recordkeeping For Public School And Charter School Students.

HI SR27

Urging The Department Of Land And Natural Resources Division Of Forestry And Wildlife To Prioritize The Restoration And Protection Of Additional Wetlands And Anchialine Pools.

HI SR44

Requesting The Department Of Education To Develop And Implement A Statewide Financial Literacy Curricula Plan For Public High School Students.

HI SR189

Requesting The Department Of Education And Department Of Law Enforcement To Collaborate On Ensuring Safety At Public Elementary School And State Prekindergarten Program Campuses.

HI SR204

Requesting The Department Of Education To Establish A Pilot Program In Public Schools And Charter Schools To Have Available Staff Trained In Epinephrine Administration.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.