Bill > HB211

This bill amends Hawaii's existing laws regarding stream and drainage maintenance by requiring counties to remove and dispose of personal property stored in or near channels, streambeds, streambanks, and drainageways. The legislation is motivated by a specific incident in October 2024 where heavy rains caused debris to wash into the Ala Wai canal and boat harbor, creating hazardous conditions. The bill establishes that any personal property (defined as tangible items like furniture, equipment, clothing, and household goods, but excluding vehicles and vessels) stored in these areas for more than 24 consecutive hours will be considered abandoned and can be legally removed and disposed of by the state or county. The law aims to prevent environmental risks such as obstructing water flow, increasing flood potential, and introducing pollutants into ecosystems. Counties are empowered to maintain these waterways and can impose civil penalties up to $500 per day on private entities that fail to comply with removal orders. The bill underscores the legislature's commitment to preserving natural resources, protecting public safety, and maintaining the functionality of Hawaii's waterways, with an unusual effective date of July 1, 3000.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=211&year=2026