STAND. COM. REP. NO.  679

Honolulu, Hawaii

                , 2013

RE:   H.B. No. 760

      H.D. 1

Honorable Joseph M. Souki

Speaker, House of Representatives

Twenty-Seventh State Legislature

Regular Session of 2013

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Finance, to which was referred H.B. No. 760, H.D. 1, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO THE ENVIRONMENT,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to provide an opportunity for persons renting motor vehicles in Hawaii to make a voluntary contribution to be used toward environmental protection.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources, Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Historic Hawaii Foundation, Land Use Research Foundation, and The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii submitted testimony in support of the measure.

     Your Committee finds that Hawaii's unique environment is a critical component of our tourism-based economy.  Check-offs for voluntary contributions are used in thirty-six states to provide funding for conservation programs.  Allowing persons who rent motor vehicles an opportunity to donate money to conservation activities is a proven way to raise funds to preserve and protect Hawaii's unique environment, which is critical to residents and beloved by those who visit Hawaii to experience its stunning natural beauty.  This measure will allow visitors and residents alike a simple opportunity to assist in preserving and sustaining Hawaii's natural resources.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Finance that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 760, H.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Third Reading.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Finance,

____________________________

SYLVIA LUKE, Chair