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HB 658

LOCAL GOVERNMENT-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Chris Welch

Bill HB 658 streamlines environmental reviews for permits, aiming to speed up project approvals while balancing efficiency with environmental protection concerns.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 658

Summary of Bill HB 658: Relating to Environmental Review

Bill Number: HB 658
Introduced On: January 17, 2025
Current Status: Deferred by the committee(s) on EEP
Classification: Bill
Subject: Environmental Review, Permitted Activities

Purpose and Intent

Bill HB 658 aims to address the processes and requirements surrounding environmental reviews for permitted activities. The intent of the bill is to streamline the environmental review process, potentially reducing delays for projects that require permits while ensuring that environmental considerations remain a priority.

Key Provisions

While the specific text of the bill is not provided, the following key provisions can be anticipated based on the subject matter:

  • Streamlining Processes: The bill may propose modifications to existing environmental review procedures to expedite the approval of permits for various activities.
  • Criteria for Permitted Activities: It is likely that the bill outlines specific criteria or thresholds that determine which activities require a full environmental review and which may qualify for expedited processes.
  • Public Involvement: The bill may include provisions for public input during the review process, ensuring that community concerns are addressed while balancing the need for efficiency.

Who Would Be Affected

The potential impact of HB 658 includes:

  • Developers and Businesses: Entities seeking permits for construction, development, or other activities that impact the environment may benefit from a more efficient review process.
  • Environmental Advocacy Groups: These organizations may have concerns regarding the potential reduction in thoroughness of environmental assessments, which could affect conservation efforts.
  • Local Governments: Municipalities involved in permitting processes may need to adapt to new guidelines or procedures established by the bill.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 17, 2025: Bill introduced and pending introduction.
  • January 21, 2025: Bill referred to the committees on EEP (Energy and Environmental Protection) and JHA (Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs).
  • January 31, 2025: Scheduled for a hearing by the EEP committee on February 11, 2025, at 10:15 AM via videoconference.
  • February 11, 2025: The EEP committee recommended that the measure be deferred, indicating that further discussion or amendments may be necessary before proceeding.

Conclusion

Bill HB 658 represents an effort to refine the environmental review process for permitted activities. While it aims to facilitate development and reduce bureaucratic delays, it also raises important questions about the balance between efficiency and environmental protection. The bill's future will depend on further discussions and potential amendments as it moves through the legislative process.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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