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Bill

SB 2579

RELATING TO WATER.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lynn DeCoite and 2 co-sponsors

Hawaii bill SB 2579 advances water policy through committee with amendments recommended, affecting the state's management of limited freshwater resources for agriculture, residents, and environment.

Reported from EIG (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 2175) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM.
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Bill Summary · SB 2579

Legislative bill overview

SB 2579 is a Hawaii water-related bill introduced by Senators Lamosao, San Buenaventura, and DeCoite that has advanced through initial legislative stages. The bill received a committee recommendation to pass with amendments on February 3, 2026, after a public hearing, indicating the Legislature finds merit in its core provisions but seeks modifications.

Why is this important

Water policy directly affects Hawaii's agricultural capacity, residential availability, environmental sustainability, and public health. Given Hawaii's geographic isolation, limited freshwater resources, and competing demands from tourism, agriculture, and residents, water legislation can have substantial economic and quality-of-life consequences across the islands.

Potential points of contention

  • The bill's specific provisions remain unclear from available summary information; amendments recommended by the EIG committee may address significant stakeholder concerns about implementation or scope
  • Water allocation disputes in Hawaii historically involve tensions between agricultural interests (especially sugar and diversified farming), residential development, Native Hawaiian traditional rights, and environmental protection
  • Any changes to water rights, distribution systems, or regulatory frameworks could affect costs for consumers, agricultural operations, and local government utilities

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

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