STAND. COM. REP. NO. 2189-26

Honolulu, Hawaii

, 2026

RE: S.C.R. No. 100

S.D. 1

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 S.C.R. No. 100, S.D. 1, entitled:

"SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONVENING A WORKING GROUP TO ESTABLISH A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION RECOGNIZED BY THE STATE TO SUPPORT SANCTUARIES AND OTHER CONSERVATION-RELATED INITIATIVES FOR ENDANGERED AND OTHER SPECIES,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to convene a working group to establish a nonprofit organization recognized by the State to support sanctuaries and other conservation-related initiatives for endangered and other species.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources and one individual.

Your Committee finds that numerous species in the State are on the brink of extinction, particularly many indigenous birds found nowhere else in the world. Although the State has made progress in addressing the myriad causes contributing to such extinction, existing efforts must be supplemented to prevent further loss of biodiversity. Your Committee further finds that numerous successful sanctuary models around the world rely on flexible quasi-government partnerships that generate substantial revenue for conservation efforts; provide critical habitats for endangered and other species; and serve as educational centers for local communities, schools, and visitors. Your Committee also finds that establishing sanctuaries in the State similar to those that have proven successful elsewhere can raise revenue; advance Hawaii's position as the premier location for endangered species work; and create pathways for local education, jobs, investment, and research. Your Committee additionally finds that successful models for the establishment and operation of specialized endangered species sanctuaries effectively supplement broader government-run efforts and programs, as many quasi-government sanctuary models provide greater flexibility and adaptability for fundraising, management, innovation, and community engagement.

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 S.C.R. No. 100, S.D. 1, and recommends that it be referred to your Committee on Finance.

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

____________________________

MARK J. HASHEM, Chair