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Bill

HB 1495

RELATING TO THE KEAUHOU AQUIFER SYSTEM.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kirstin Kahaloa and 4 co-sponsors

HB 1495 establishes regulatory framework for Hawaii's Keauhou Aquifer System to balance freshwater extraction with long-term sustainability and address competing water demands.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 1495

Legislative bill overview

HB 1495 addresses management and governance of the Keauhou Aquifer System in Hawaii, a critical freshwater resource on the Big Island. The bill appears to establish or modify regulatory frameworks, oversight mechanisms, or usage policies for this aquifer to protect its long-term sustainability and manage competing water demands.

Why is this important

Hawaii faces significant water scarcity challenges, and aquifer systems like Keauhou are essential to the islands' freshwater supply for agriculture, residential, and commercial use. Effective aquifer management prevents over-extraction, saltwater intrusion, and depletion while balancing the needs of local communities, farming operations, and economic development. Legislation governing aquifer use directly affects water security, environmental health, and residents' access to this vital resource.

Potential points of contention

  • Agricultural vs. residential water allocation – Determining how much water is allocated to farming (historically a major user) versus growing residential demands in expanding communities
  • Environmental protection standards – Balancing extraction limits needed to preserve the aquifer against economic interests of water-dependent industries
  • Governance and oversight authority – Whether management should rest with state agencies, county governments, local stakeholders, or a combination, and what enforcement powers are granted

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

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