Some of CCH’s most lasting and impactful legacies were borne from its steadfast advocacy before Hawai‘i’s legislature. We successfully fought for the state Natural Area Reserves System, Hawai‘i’s unique and robust Land Use Law, and statutory requirements to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
We also secured continual state funding for biosecurity and conservation programs, and have always pushed back against legislation that would eliminate environmental protections or threaten public trust resources.
As one of the very few organizations to consistently “show up” for hearings on bills that affect Hawai‘i’s native species, CCH has certainly been a familiar face to many longtime legislators. Many legislators have even called CCH’s office for insights and advice on the matters before them.
Much of our success at the legislature can be attributed to our longstanding reputation for credibility, informed by members, staff, and directors with deep and substantial expertise on our native species and ecosystems. Our clear values for open, constructive dialog and mutual respect have enabled CCH representatives to engage with and persuade legislators on various issues.
We are already preparing for what may be one of the most unique legislative sessions in CCH’s history. As Hawai‘i enters the post-COVID era, there is potential for new and unprecedented opportunities and threats. CCH’s role as the staunch yet thoughtful and reliable advocate for Hawai‘i’s native life may be more important now than ever before.
Count on us to continue our decades-long legacy of advocacy at the legislature. We will always work to ensure our native species and ecosystems have a voice in our Capitol’s halls.
Join our Environmental Legislative Network
Even the strongest environmental advocate cannot do it all alone. The Environmental Legislative Network (ELN) is a network of folks from all walks of life – students, teachers, scientists, conservationists, fishers, nature enthusiasts, even politicians – committed to helping protect our islands’ environment.
