S.871 - Hawaii Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.871, the Hawaii Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act of 2025, aims to establish a competitive grant program to support the conservation and recovery of native plant, fungi, and animal species in Hawaii. The bill authorizes $30 million annually for 10 years to fund projects carried out by eligible entities, including state and local governments, Native Hawaiian organizations, nonprofits, businesses, and institutions of higher education. The program prioritizes projects that address invasive species, climate change impacts, habitat loss, and population management of native species.
Expected Effects
The Act would lead to increased funding and technical assistance for conservation projects in Hawaii. This would likely result in improved management and restoration of native species populations and their habitats. The annual report to Congress will provide transparency and accountability regarding the use of funds and project outcomes.
Potential Benefits
- Increased funding for conservation efforts in Hawaii.
- Support for a wide range of eligible entities, including Native Hawaiian organizations.
- Prioritization of projects addressing key threats to native species.
- Promotion of scientific capacity and public engagement in conservation.
- Requirement for consultation with Native Hawaiian organizations on relevant projects.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for administrative overhead to reduce the amount of funding available for projects (up to 5%).
- Dependence on annual appropriations, which may be subject to political changes.
- Possible delays in establishing the grant program (up to 180 days after appropriation).
- The effectiveness of the program depends on the quality of project proposals and the criteria used for ranking them.
- Potential for conflicts of interest if state or local government entities are involved in funding decisions.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the U.S. Constitution, as it aims to promote the well-being of the environment and native species in Hawaii. The establishment of a grant program and the allocation of funds are within the powers of Congress. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).