Bill > SCR152

This joint resolution requests the County of Maui to acquire all West Maui water systems through eminent domain (a legal process allowing government to take private property for public use with compensation) and hold them in trust for the public, managed by the county water system. The resolution is motivated by several critical concerns, including prolonged drought conditions, climate change impacts, limited water availability, and the fact that private entities currently control approximately 80% of the region's water resources. The 2023 Maui wildfires further highlighted the need for improved water management, and the resolution emphasizes the importance of protecting Native Hawaiian agricultural practices, ensuring equitable water distribution, and upholding the public trust doctrine enshrined in the Hawaii State Constitution. Additionally, the resolution requests that water allocation priorities be guided by principles of environmental protection, cultural preservation, and community needs, and calls for collaboration with the Department of Land and Natural Resources to develop a comprehensive water resource management framework that balances agricultural, residential, and environmental requirements.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SCR&billnumber=152&year=2025