RELATING TO THE KEAUHOU AQUIFER SYSTEM.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kirstin Kahaloa and 4 co-sponsors

House Bill 1495 allocates funds for a monitoring project to protect Hawaii's Keauhou Aquifer, ensuring sustainable water management for local communities and the environment.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

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Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1495 aims to address the management and monitoring of the Keauhou Aquifer System in Hawaii. The bill seeks to enhance the oversight of this critical water resource through the establishment of a monitoring pilot project and the allocation of necessary funding. The intent is to ensure sustainable water management practices that protect the aquifer system, which is vital for both environmental and community needs.

Key Provisions

Appropriation of Funds: The bill proposes an appropriation of funds to support the Commission on Water Resource Management and the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) in their efforts to monitor the Keauhou Aquifer System.

Monitoring Pilot Project: Establishment of a pilot project specifically focused on monitoring the Keauhou Aquifer System. This project will likely involve data collection and analysis to assess the aquifer's health and sustainability.

Reporting Requirements: The bill mandates regular reporting on the findings from the monitoring efforts, ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of the aquifer.

Affected Parties

Commission on Water Resource Management: This state agency will be directly involved in implementing the provisions of the bill, overseeing the monitoring project, and managing the appropriated funds.

Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR): The DLNR will collaborate with the Commission to ensure effective management of the aquifer system.

Local Communities: Residents and businesses that rely on the Keauhou Aquifer for their water supply will be impacted by the outcomes of the monitoring project, as it aims to safeguard their water resources.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced: The bill was introduced on February 17, 2025.

Committee Actions: It was reported from the Water and Land (WAL) committee with a recommendation for referral to the Finance (FIN) committee. The bill has undergone several readings and amendments in both the House and Senate.

Current Status: As of now, the bill has been reported from WAL and is awaiting further action in the FIN committee.

Conclusion

House Bill 1495 represents a proactive approach to managing the Keauhou Aquifer System, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and sustainable practices. By appropriating funds and establishing a pilot project, the bill aims to enhance the protection of this vital water resource for future generations. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final outcome and implementation of the proposed measures.

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