Story perspectives

Hawaii's $126M Green Fee Proposal Faces Lawmaker Scrutiny

2/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green proposed a $126 million package of projects funded by a green fee, to raise about $100 million annually from a higher hotel tax and a new cruise ship levy.
Lawmakers question the use of borrowed funds for some projects, citing transparency and accountability concerns.
The Green Fee Advisory Council vetted more than 600 proposals and produced a list including invasive species control, reforestation, and hurricane preparedness.

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Story summary

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green proposed a $126 million package of projects funded by a green fee, to raise about $100 million annually from a higher hotel tax and a new cruise ship levy.
Lawmakers question the use of borrowed funds for some projects, citing transparency and accountability concerns.
The Green Fee Advisory Council vetted more than 600 proposals and produced a list including invasive species control, reforestation, and hurricane preparedness.