Bill > SB110

This bill addresses water protection in Hawaii in response to a 2023 Supreme Court decision that narrowed federal wetland protections. The bill introduces new definitions for "isolated wetlands" (wetlands not included in federal navigable waters) and "wetlands" (areas saturated by surface or ground water that support vegetation adapted to wet conditions, including swamps, marshes, bogs, and fens). It expands the definition of "state waters" to explicitly include all wetlands, both those recognized by federal regulations and isolated wetlands. The bill requires the Director of Health to delineate and categorize all wetlands in the state, determining which are isolated and which are part of the broader waters of the United States. Additionally, the bill strengthens pollution control by prohibiting the discharge of water pollutants into state waters or at any location where pollutants might enter state waters, except in compliance with existing regulations, permits, or variances. This legislation aims to fill gaps in water protection created by the Supreme Court's narrower interpretation of the Clean Water Act, ensuring comprehensive environmental safeguards for Hawaii's water resources.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=110&year=2025