Proposing an amendment to article XI, section 1, of the Hawaii constitution, to require use and protection of Hawaii's natural resources in a manner consistent with their sustainability. Defines "sustainability". (HB898 HD1)

A BILL FOR AN ACT

SECTION 1. The purpose of this Act is to propose an amendment to article XI, section 1, of the Constitution of the State of Hawaii to require the use and protection of Hawaii's natural resources in a manner consistent with their sustainability.

SECTION 2. Article XI, section 1, of the Constitution of the State of Hawaii is amended to read as follows:

"ARTICLE XI

CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF RESOURCES

Section 1. For the benefit of present and future generations, the State and its political subdivisions shall conserve and protect Hawaii's natural beauty and all natural resources, including land, water, air, minerals and energy sources, and shall promote the development and utilization of these resources in a manner consistent with their [conservation] sustainability and in furtherance of the self-sufficiency of the State.

All public natural resources are held in trust by the State for the benefit of the people. In rendering any decision, the State and its political subdivisions shall protect Hawaii's surfsites, beaches, beauty, and other natural resources for present and future generations to enjoy.

For the purposes of this section, "sustainability" means the balancing of environmental stewardship, social justice, cultural concerns and economic activity to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs or the health and viability of Hawaii's natural resources and ecosystems."

SECTION 3. The question to be printed on the ballot shall be as follows:

SECTION 4. Constitutional material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken. New constitutional material is underscored.

SECTION 5. This amendment shall take effect upon compliance with article XVII, section 3, of the Constitution of the State of Hawaii.