Hawaii Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act of 2025

# Hawaii Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act of 2025 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would establish new protections and recovery programs for native Hawaiian plant and animal species that are endangered or at risk of extinction. If passed, it would authorize funding and create frameworks for conservation efforts targeting species found only in Hawaii. The legislation aims to preserve Hawaii's unique wildlife—much of which exists nowhere else on Earth—through habitat restoration, research, and management initiatives. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily affect Hawaiian ecosystems and species native to the islands. It would also involve federal agencies (likely the Department of Interior or Fish and Wildlife Service), state Hawaiian authorities, conservation organizations, and potentially landowners whose property contains critical habitats for these species.

Hawaii residents and visitors who value the islands' natural heritage would also be indirectly affected through changes to environmental protection and land management. **Current Status** As of now, the bill (S. 871) has been introduced in the Senate and remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full chamber. The bill was sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii. For it to become law, it would need to pass committee review, Senate floor debate, House approval, and presidential signature.