STAND. COM. REP. NO. 2721

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: S.B. No. 2430

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirtieth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2020

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committees on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Health and Agriculture and Environment, to which was referred S.B. No. 2430 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION,"

beg leave to report as follows:

The purpose and intent of this measure is to establish and appropriate funds for a climate change and human health adaptation coordinator within the Department of Health.

Your Committees received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Health, Department of Agriculture, Office of Planning, Hawaii Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission, one member of the Hawai‘i County Council, Honolulu Board of Water Supply, and four individuals. Your Committees received testimony in opposition to this measure from one individual.

Your Committees find that climate change affects human health and well-being and is a critical public health problem. While investments in mitigation relating to infrastructure to reduce carbon emissions or prepare for sea level rise are sound, there has been insufficient activity focusing on adaptation, specifically for human health. Additionally, climate change makes many existing diseases and conditions worse and may also help introduce new pests and pathogens into new regions or communities. The most vulnerable people, such as children, the elderly, the poor, and those with underlying health conditions, are at increased risk for health effects from climate change, all of which will begin to further stress the health care infrastructure, financial systems, and delivery systems. This measure ensures that there is statewide coordination and planning in the implementation of adaptation goals, principles, and policies relating to climate change impacts on human health.

As affirmed by the records of votes of the members of your Committees on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Health and Agriculture and Environment that are attached to this report, your Committees are in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 2430 and recommend that it pass Second Reading and be referred to your Committee on Ways and Means.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committees on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Health and Agriculture and Environment,

________________________________ MIKE GABBARD, Chair

________________________________ ROSALYN H. BAKER, Chair