Bill > HB510

This bill amends Hawaii's water resource management laws to provide the Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) with expanded authority to declare and manage water shortages across both designated water management areas and other regions. The bill introduces several key changes, including limiting water shortage declarations to 90 days (with possible extensions), restricting water usage limitations to 20% of a user's last reported monthly usage, and requiring the commission to maintain a notification list for individuals who want to be informed about water shortage declarations. The legislation responds to recent drought conditions experienced across Hawaiian islands in 2024 and aims to create a more transparent, uniform, and proactive approach to water resource management. The bill requires CWRM to develop clear rules and criteria for declaring water shortages, and mandates more comprehensive public notification through newspaper publications, website postings, and direct communication with permit holders. Additionally, the bill allows the commission to impose emergency orders if public health, safety, or environmental needs are at risk, while ensuring that affected parties can challenge such orders but must comply immediately. The provisions will take effect on July 1, 2040, giving state agencies and water users ample time to prepare for the new regulatory framework.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=510&year=2026