Bill > HB1359

This bill establishes a comprehensive flood mitigation and assistance grant program administered by the Board of Land and Natural Resources to address residential flooding issues in Hawaii. The program will provide two types of grants: one for counties, homeowners' associations, and groups of property owners to maintain and improve drainage systems in residential areas (including private roads), and another for individual homeowners to implement flood mitigation measures such as elevating homes, installing flood barriers, and improving landscaping to reduce flood risks. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, provide evidence of flooding history, and meet various administrative requirements, including submitting annual reports and allowing financial audits. The board will also develop public education materials about flood prevention and must submit an annual report to the legislature detailing the grants awarded and project outcomes. The bill includes an appropriation of funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support the implementation of this new grant program, with the goal of helping communities better manage flood risks caused by aging infrastructure, poor drainage, and increased rainfall due to climate change.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1359&year=2026