Bill > HB919

This bill modifies the composition of Hawaii's Commission on Water Resource Management by adding the Chairperson of the Hawaiian Homes Commission (or their designee) as an eighth ex officio voting member, alongside the existing ex officio member from the Department of Health. The bill clarifies that only the five members appointed by the Governor are required to have substantial experience in water resource management, with at least one member needing expertise in traditional Hawaiian water resource management techniques. The legislation aims to ensure that the perspectives and interests of Hawaiian home lands are represented in water resource decision-making, recognizing the importance of protecting water reserves for current and future Native Hawaiian land development. By expanding the commission's membership, the bill seeks to provide more comprehensive and culturally informed water resource management in Hawaii.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=919&year=2026