Geothermal energy has not disappeared from the legislative agenda. The administration is seeking $3 million this year for geothermal exploration, plus about half a million more for the consultants preparing the environmental impact statement/master development plan. That is in addition … Continued
Since publication of the September 1990 issue of Environment Hawai`i, there have been these developments: In the Engelstad case, the attorney general has decided that the permit is valid. The basis for this determination is the fact that some test … Continued
It’s ba-a-a-ck. The Superfund law, which passed last year by the skin of its teeth (remarkable for a bill that had so few), is being opened up for surgery this year. According to Health Director Dr. John Lewin, the administration’s … Continued
Recent development pressures have illustrated dramatically the weakness of laws governing forest areas and Conservation District lands. A report by the Legislative Auditor on residential uses in the Conservation District has disclosed still more flaws in the administration of those … Continued
Chapter 195D of Hawai`i Revised Statutes is the state’s law protecting endangered species. The Legislature faces a number of bills to amend this chapter. Each is certain to spark controversy. Michael Buck, head of the Division of Forestry and Wildlife … Continued
If the number of bills on a given subject were a gauge of legislators’ determination to deal with that issue, solid waste would be a sure candidate for action this year. Many of the bills deal with one small aspect … Continued
Reorganization of Hawai`i’s management of coastal issues seems almost certain this session. Two reports recommending changes have been presented to the Legislature — one from the Hawai`i Ocean and Marine Resources Council (under the auspices of the Department of Business … Continued
In the last month, the country has gone to war. If Kuwait were not an ally sitting atop one of the world’s largest oil fields, one can only wonder how quickly the United States would have rushed to its defense. … Continued