Bill > SB204

This bill strengthens the enforcement mechanisms of Hawaii's State Water Code by expanding the types of violations and increasing penalties for non-compliance. Specifically, the bill adds a minimum penalty (though the exact amount is not specified in the text) and increases the maximum penalty per violation, while making each day of an ongoing violation a separate offense. The bill expands the definition of violations to include failing to obtain required permits, not complying with permit conditions, and ignoring water audit requirements. The Commission on Water Resource Management is now required to consider multiple factors when imposing penalties, including the nature and history of the violation, economic benefits gained by the violator, the difficulty of corrective action, good faith efforts to comply, and degree of culpability. Additionally, the bill changes the commission's administrative fine process from discretionary to mandatory, meaning they must now set, charge, and collect administrative fines for water code violations. The legislation aims to create a more robust deterrent against water resource violations and ensure more comprehensive accountability for those who do not comply with state water regulations. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=204&year=2025