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HB 641 — Restoration of Osborne Reef
by Rep. LaMarca and others (SB 546 by Senators Avila, Pizzo, and Book)
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Environment and Natural Resources Committee (EN)
The bill requires the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to submit a report to the Legislature on the status of the Osborne Reef cleanup and tire removal project. The report must include:
- A description of the condition of the remaining Osborne Reef structure;
- Any restoration efforts undertaken to restore the reef structure;
- The number of tires that have been retrieved and the number that still need to be retrieved; and
- The estimated timeline for the completion of the project.
The bill directs DEP to develop a comprehensive restoration plan for Osborne Reef by July 1, 2024, upon completion of the cleanup and tire removal project. The restoration plan must include:
- A preliminary plan for the restoration of the existing reef;
- The restoration of any nearby natural reefs that were destroyed by the tire installation;
- The shifting of resources from tire retrieval to reef restoration; and
- Coordination with other coral reef restoration projects and resources.
Upon completion of the plan, DEP must provide a report to the Legislature. The report must include an update on the status of the restoration plan and any recommendations for statutory changes necessary to achieve the identified restoration goals.
The bill also contains legislative findings regarding the enactment and purposes of the Act.
If approved by the Governor, or allowed to become law without the Governor’s signature, these provisions take effect July 1, 2023, unless otherwise provided.
Vote: Senate 38-0; House 115-0