Beginning 1/1/2027, requires each county to implement fare-free access to its public transportation systems. Establishes the Fare-Free Public Transportation Tax and Dividend Special Fund. Increases the Environmental Response, Energy, and Food Security Tax on petroleum products to fund fare-free public transportation. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
SB 2525 reestablishes an income tax credit for homeowners who upgrade, convert, or connect their cesspool systems (outdated septic systems) to modern sewage infrastructure. This credit directly affects homeowners in areas requiring cesspool replacement, reducing their tax burden when making these upgrades. The provision applies to tax years beginning after December 31, 2026, meaning eligible expenses incurred in 2027 or later can be claimed on tax returns. The bill does not change current cesspool regulations but provides financial incentives to encourage system upgrades.
Expands the types of water heater systems that may satisfy the relevant requirement for the issuance of a building permit for new single-family dwellings to include ENERGY STAR certified heat pump water heaters. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
Authorizes the counties to close or restrict public lands under the county's jurisdiction when necessary to protect public health, ensure public safety, or preserve natural or cultural resources. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
Authorizes the counties to close public lands when necessary to protect public health, ensure public safety, or preserve natural or cultural resources.
SB 202 requires electric utilities to pay customer-generators (like homeowners with solar panels) for excess electricity they send back to the grid, replacing previous credit systems. This directly affects residential and commercial customers who generate their own renewable energy. The bill mandates that utilities compensate these customers for surplus power at a specific rate, ensuring fair payment for contributions to the grid. It passed committee with amendments in February 2025 and aims to support distributed renewable energy adoption.
Requires each state agency to expeditiously use energy efficient lighting. Requires the Hawaii State Energy Office to provide technical assistance and survey state agencies for compliance, prioritizing first responder facilities. Requires the Department of Accounting and General Services to assist the Hawaii State Energy Office in conducting the survey. Requires a report of the survey to the Legislature.
Prohibits the Department of Health from issuing permits for commercial burning of green waste products in residential areas or within one thousand feet of a residential property.
Directs the University of Hawaiʻi School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology to conduct a study that identifies, analyzes, and evaluates possible methods to capture, retain, and store rainwater and storm water runoff for counties with a population of more than five hundred thousand. Requires an annual report to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
Extends the State's energy-efficiency portfolio standards from 2030 to 2045 and updates the standards. Authorizes the public utilities commission to adjust the 2045 and interim standards.
