STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1843-26

Honolulu, Hawaii

, 2026

RE: H.R. No. 98

Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura

Speaker, House of Representatives

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Madame:

Your Committee on Water & Land, to which was referred H.R. No. 98 entitled:

"HOUSE RESOLUTION ENDORSING WAIKIKI AS A WORLD SURFING RESERVE,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to endorse the recognition of 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 the World Surfing Reserves is a program created by the Save the Waves Coalition for the identification, designation, and preservation of the world's most outstanding surf zones and their surrounding environment. Your Committee further finds that Waikiki unquestionably meets the criteria to qualify as a globally significant surf spot, with an outstanding series of surf breaks; unique environmental characteristics, with clear methods of protection; a rich surf culture and history; strong community support; and a high-priority conservation area.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Water & Land that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of H.R. No. 98 and recommends its adoption.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Water & Land,

____________________________

MARK J. HASHEM, Chair