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HB 510

RELATING TO DECLARATION OF WATER SHORTAGE AND EMERGENCY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Hashem and 2 co-sponsors

HB 510 establishes clear procedures for declaring water shortages, ensuring timely public notification and coordinated resource management to protect water supplies statewide.

Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 732).
#cwrm #notice #watershortagedeclaration #watershortageandemergency
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Bill Summary · HB 510

Summary of HB 510: Relating to Declaration of Water Shortage and Emergency

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 510 (HB 510) aims to establish a more structured and effective process for declaring water shortages and emergencies within the state. The bill seeks to enhance the management of water resources, ensuring that appropriate measures are taken promptly in response to water scarcity situations.

Key Provisions

  • Declaration Process: The bill outlines specific criteria and procedures for declaring a water shortage or emergency. This includes the roles of various state agencies and the criteria that must be met to trigger such declarations.
  • Public Notification: HB 510 mandates that the public be notified promptly when a water shortage or emergency is declared. This is intended to ensure transparency and allow for community preparedness.
  • Resource Management: The bill emphasizes the need for coordinated resource management among state agencies, particularly the Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM), to address water shortages effectively.
  • Emergency Measures: It provides guidelines for implementing emergency measures to conserve water and manage supply during declared shortages.

Affected Parties

  • State Agencies: The CWRM and other relevant state departments will be directly involved in the implementation of the bill's provisions.
  • Local Governments: Municipalities may need to adjust their water management strategies in response to the new declaration processes.
  • Residents and Businesses: The general public, including residents and businesses relying on water resources, will be affected by the measures taken during water shortages or emergencies.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: January 17, 2025
  • House Actions:
    • The bill passed its first reading on January 21, 2025, and was referred to the committees on Water and Land (WAL) and Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA).
    • It underwent several readings and amendments, with significant votes occurring on February 11, March 6, and April 8, 2025.
    • The House disagreed with Senate amendments on April 10, 2025, leading to the appointment of House conferees on April 15, 2025.
  • Senate Actions: The bill was amended in the Senate and passed through various readings before being returned to the House for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • SB 145: This bill serves as a companion to HB 510, indicating that similar provisions may be considered in the Senate.

Conclusion

HB 510 represents a proactive approach to managing water resources in the face of potential shortages and emergencies. By establishing clear procedures and enhancing communication, the bill aims to safeguard the state's water supply and ensure that communities are prepared to respond effectively to water scarcity challenges.

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

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