Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR89

Introduced
3/16/26  
Refer
3/19/26  
Report Pass
4/8/26  

Caption

Endorsing Waikiki As A World Surfing Reserve.

Impact

The resolution aims to highlight the need for protecting Waikiki's surf sites amidst various threats, including climate change and pollution. By designating Waikiki as a World Surfing Reserve, the bill seeks to raise awareness and catalyze local community efforts to safeguard its surfing ecosystem. This move is deemed crucial, given that Waikiki is not only a significant surfing location but also the State's largest tourist destination, contributing substantially to the local economy.

Summary

Senate Resolution 89 endorses Waikiki as a World Surfing Reserve, recognizing its unique cultural and ecological significance. The bill emphasizes Waikiki's historical importance as a center for Native Hawaiian surfing, linked to iconic figures like Duke Kahanamoku, and its role in promoting the sport globally. This resolution not only celebrates surfing as a cultural art form but also reinforces the values of environmental stewardship and community connection inherent to Hawaiian surfing practices.

Contention

While the resolution is primarily supportive, it does interject the ongoing debates about how best to manage environmental resources while fostering economic growth. Critics may argue about the challenges of balancing tourism-driven economic interests with long-term ecological preservation. The resolution frames the designation as a means to protect both cultural heritage and environmental health, suggesting a collaboration between local communities and governmental bodies for effective management.

Companion Bills

HI SCR94

Same As Endorsing Waikiki As A World Surfing Reserve.

HI HR98

Same As Endorsing Waikiki As A World Surfing Reserve.

Previously Filed As

HI SR208

Recognizing September 2nd As Richard "buffalo" Keaulana Day.

HI HB133

Relating To Surfing.

HI SCR232

Recognizing September 2nd As Richard "buffalo" Keaulana Day.

HI SB655

Relating To Richard "buffalo" Keaulana Day.

HI HB266

Relating To Surfing.

HI SB178

Relating To Surfing.

HI SR153

Endorsing And Reaffirming Support For The Progress Achieved By The Aloha+ Challenge Through Its Integrated Approach And Six Ambitious Targets To Be Reached By 2030.

HI SR148

Urging The East-west Center To Expand International Engagement Around The World And Serve As A Bridge To Help The State Share Its Unique Expertise With Tropical Agriculture, Food Security, Public Health, Education, Clean Energy, And Sustainable Development, Where It Might Be Most Helpful To Other Communities Around The World.

HI SR17

Endorsing Taiwan's International Participation, Supporting The Signing Of A United States-taiwan Bilateral Trade Agreement, And Commemorating The Relationships And Exchanges Between The State Of Hawaii And Taiwan.

HI HCR89

Urging The State Of Hawaii And City And County Of Honolulu To Collaborate In The Development Of A World-class, Comprehensive Sports Complex In West Oahu.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.