STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1947

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: H.C.R. No. 81

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Second State Legislature

Regular Session of 2023

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Transportation and Culture and the Arts, to which was referred H.C.R. No. 81 entitled:

"HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING AUGUST 8, 2023, AS HAWAIIAN HONEYCREEPERS CELEBRATION DAY,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose and intent of this measure is to recognize August 8, 2023, as Hawaiian Honeycreepers Celebration Day.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources; The Nature Conservancy; Coordinating Group on Alien Pest Species; American Bird Conservancy; numerous students from Kalaheo Elementary School, Kanuikapono Public Charter School, ‘Iolani School, Pōmaika‘i Elementary School, Mānoa Elementary School, Volcano Elementary School; and three individuals.

Your Committee finds that Hawaii is home to many native plant and animal species, including forty-seven endemic manu (bird) species that include honeycreepers. The introduction of various threats, including predators, disease, climate change, and degradation of habitats, has accelerated extinction threats for native manu. By recognizing the cultural and scientific significance of manu through community awareness and support, further success to protect native manu can be achieved. This measure recognizes the importance of Hawaii's native species while also acknowledging ongoing efforts to protect and preserve native manu in the State's natural areas.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Transportation and Culture and the Arts that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of H.C.R. No. 81, and recommends its adoption.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Transportation and Culture and the Arts,

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CHRIS LEE, Chair