Hey, Governor Ige- Don't Veto Energy Efficiency Bill

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Governor Ige recently announced his intent to veto 6 bills that were passed during the 2020 legislative session. Among them is House Bill 1846, an important bill that not only advances our climate change and clean energy goals, but supports good, clean jobs and saves the state money! Join us in asking Governor Ige to NOT VETO HB 1846.

What does the bill do: HB 1846 is the state’s way to lead by example on reducing our electricity use. The bill requires energy efficiency measures to be taken in state buildings and requires new state buildings to include energy and water efficiency measures, to maximize clean energy generation, and to use construction materials that reduce the building’s carbon footprint. The bill requires that the efficiency measures be feasible and cost-effective and also includes exemptions for small buildings and the Aloha Stadium, helping to ensure this law makes financial sense and is not overly burdensome to implement.

How you can help: Call Governor Ige’s office at 808-586-0034 and ask that he does not veto HB 1846. Then, send a message via his “Comments on Legislation” form by using the information below:

  • Include your name, city, and email address

  • Is this a Senate or House Bill: HB

  • Bill Number: 1846

  • Position: Support

  • Message:

    Aloha Governor, I’m asking you to not veto House Bill 1846, which is the state’s way to lead by example on energy efficiency. Our state facilities are one of the largest electricity users and requiring feasible, cost-effective efficiency measures in state buildings is a no-brainer solution to reduce energy waste, keep people employed, and save taxpayer money as we deal with the projected budget shortfalls of COVID-19. Hawai‘i is facing an unprecedented economic and climate crisis. This bill not only reduces Hawai‘i’s carbon footprint by making our state facilities more sustainable in their construction materials, electricity, and water use, but also supports 5,000 existing jobs in energy efficiency at a time when we need to seriously address climate change and diversify our economy. Please do not veto HB 1846.

The deadline to veto and sign bills is September 15th. Send a message to Governor Ige today (and call his office at 808-586-0034) asking him to not veto HB 1846.