Bill > HB1020

This bill establishes a Carbon Sequestration, Underground Water, and Geothermal Exploration Resource Characterization Program to be implemented by Hawaii's Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT). The program will use slim-hole boring techniques (narrow, small-diameter drilling) to identify and map underground water resources and potential carbon sequestration sites across the state, with the goal of supporting agriculture, clean energy, and land use planning. Before and during the program's implementation, DBEDT is required to engage with local counties and communities to explain the project, understand community concerns, and identify appropriate exploration locations. The bill mandates a statewide environmental assessment in collaboration with the University of Hawaii's Groundwater and Geothermal Resources Center, and requires DBEDT to submit a comprehensive progress report to the legislature before the 2028 regular session. The bill also appropriates funding from the energy security special fund and general state revenues to support the program's activities and establish necessary full-time equivalent positions, with the program set to take effect on July 1, 3000 (likely a typographical error that should read 2024 or 2025).

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1020&year=2026