Hawaii's House Bill 1491 seeks to promote climate education, environmental sustainability, and indigenous knowledge in both K-12 and higher education.
If enacted, the bill would require the state department of education to "develop and implement a statewide curricula plan for public school students in kindergarten through twelfth grade that integrates climate education and environmental sustainability" and to arrange for appropriate teacher development programs.
Additionally, the bill would require the University of Hawaii to "develop and implement a series of courses on climate education and environmental sustainability to be offered at each campus within the university system. Completion of the coursework shall be required by every student, regardless of major, prior to graduation."
The bill was introduced by Amy A. Perusso (D-District 46) and six of her colleagues on January 23, 2025. It is the second climate change bill in Hawaii in 2025, after House Bill 99.
