STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3413

 

Honolulu, Hawaii

                  

 

RE:    S.C.R. No. 129

 

 

 

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

 

Sir:

 

     Your Committee on Agriculture and Environment, to which was referred S.C.R. No. 129 entitled:

 

"SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION AFFIRMING SUPPORT FOR THE EXPANSION OF PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS THAT INCREASE TREE CANOPY COVERAGE AND INSTALL SHADE TREES IN URBAN AREAS TO MITIGATE THE EFFECTS OF URBAN HEAT ISLANDS ACROSS THE STATE,"

 

begs leave to report as follows:

 

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to affirm the Legislature's support for expanding programs and projects that increase tree canopy coverage and install shade trees in urban areas to mitigate the effects of urban heat islands throughout the State.

 

     Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Hawaiʻi Public Health Institute, Climate Protectors Hawaiʻi, Kaulunani Urban & Community Forestry Advisory Council, Hawaii Climate Change and Health Working Group, The Outdoor Circle, and three individuals.

 

     Your Committee finds that urban trees are a proven, cost‑effective infrastructure solution to help lower temperatures, enhance air quality, and promote public health.  Furthermore, the State, through existing programs, has demonstrated its commitment to expanding tree canopy coverage and shade among communities with differing socioeconomic levels.  This measure would further address gaps in equitable tree canopy coverage and support successful models for coordinated investment, community partnerships, and long-term stewardship of urban forests.

 

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Agriculture and Environment that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of S.C.R. No. 129 and recommends its adoption.

 

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Agriculture and Environment,

 

 

 

________________________________

MIKE GABBARD, Chair