Thank Your Legislators for Caring for ‘Āina
In April, Hawai‘i’s state legislators passed landmark legislation that ties Hawai‘i’s economic prosperity directly to the protection and stewardship of its natural resources, marking a historic win for climate resilience and sustainable tourism. This groundbreaking legislation secures long-term funding for climate resilience, natural resource protection, and sustainable tourism.
While Hawai‘i welcomes 10 million visitors annually, it faces a $560 million annual shortfall in critical funding needed to protect its natural resources. A recent poll conducted by FM3 Research confirms broad visitor support for such funding, with 75 percent of visitors — and 85 percent of repeat visitors — in favor of paying such a fee so long as it goes to natural resource stewardship.
The historic legislation increases the transient-accommodations tax that visitors pay on their nightly hotel and short-term rental stays by 0.75%. Those who dock in Hawaiʻi on cruise ships will start paying that tax as well. The bill ensures that a significant portion of visitor-generated revenue is reinvested into natural resource stewardship, restoration, and destination management.
“This bill is a shining example of what’s possible when we work together for community,” said Ulalia Woodside Lee, Care for ʻĀina Now coalition member and executive director of The Nature Conservancy, Hawai‘i and Palmyra. “The lands, waters, and cultural traditions of Hawai‘i are priceless, and now we have a sustainable, reliable way to mālama and steward them for future generations. This victory belongs to everyone who cares for Hawai‘i.”
Contact your Hawai‘i state legislators today. Tell them you appreciate their vision and commitment to protecting and stewarding Hawai‘i’s natural and cultural resources for today and for future generations.
This letter will be delivered via email to:
Your Hawai‘i State Senator
Your Hawai‘i State Representative
Please note: In order for your petition to submit, your street address must be in Hawai‘i and must be recognized as valid by the U.S. Postal Service. If your address is not recognized for any reason — and thus your petition does not submit — you can alternatively locate and contact your Hawai‘i state legislators here. We apologize for any inconvenience!
Mahalo nui loa for passing SB1396
Mahalo nui loa for passing SB1396 to protect and steward Hawai‘i’s natural and cultural resources.
Hawai‘i’s ecosystems and natural and cultural resources provide over $6 billion to our economy annually, supporting our communities, our livelihoods and our culture. With this visionary new legislation, we are now investing more to mālama ‘āina. We need this funding now, more than ever, as increasing natural disasters including wildfires, storms, and floods impact our island home.
Thank you for passing an environmental stewardship fee this year to invest in what makes Hawai‘i, Hawai‘i.
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