Bill > HB510

This bill amends Hawaii's water resource management laws to enhance the Commission on Water Resource Management's (CWRM) ability to declare and manage water shortages, both within and outside designated water management areas. The bill requires CWRM to develop comprehensive water shortage plans and establish a permit classification system, which will help stakeholders understand their water usage priorities during shortages. Key provisions include limiting water shortage declarations to 90 days (with possible extensions), restricting water usage reductions to a maximum of 20% of a permittee's last reported monthly usage, and mandating more extensive public notification processes. The bill requires CWRM to maintain a list of individuals who want to be notified of water shortage declarations and to send them notices via certified mail or email. Additionally, the bill expands CWRM's authority to impose water restrictions on well and stream diversion work owners outside water management areas, recognizing that water shortages can occur rapidly and affect diverse regions. The legislation is partly motivated by recent drought conditions experienced across Hawaiian islands in 2024 and aims to create a more transparent, uniform approach to managing water resources during potential shortages. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2040.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=510&year=2025