Hawaii lawmakers have passed first-of-its-kind legislation that increases the state’s lodging tax. They say the increase will raise money for environmental protection and strengthening defenses against climate change-fueled natural disasters.

A trip to Hawaii is about to get even more expensive for travelers in an attempt to preserve the islands' future. Hawaii lawmakers have passed a first-of-its-kind bill that will raise the tax on hotel stays and other vacation rentals,

Hawaii lawmakers have passed a "first of its kind" bill that increases the state's hotel tax to fund climate change relief efforts, the governor's office said.