STAND. COM. REP. NO. 2206-26

Honolulu, Hawaii

, 2026

RE: S.C.R. No. 94

Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura

Speaker, House of Representatives

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Madame:

Your Committee on Culture & Arts, to which was referred S.C.R. No. 94 entitled:

"SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION ENDORSING WAIKIKI AS A WORLD SURFING RESERVE,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to endorse Waikiki as a World Surfing Reserve.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the College of Social Sciences and Sea Grant College Program of the University of Hawaiʻi and Waikīkī Beach Special Improvement District Association.

Your Committee finds that Waikiki's iconic surf breaks are not only the birthplace of modern surfing but also a vital cultural and economic engine for the State. However, the long-term health of this unique marine ecosystem is increasingly threatened by the impacts of climate change and land-based pollution. By endorsing the designation of Waikiki as a World Surfing Reserve, this measure formally recognizes its global significance and enhances the protection of critical natural resources.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Culture & Arts that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of S.C.R. No. 94 and recommends that it be referred to your Committee on Water & Land.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Culture & Arts,

____________________________

JEANNE KAPELA, Chair