Relating To Dam And Reservoir Safety.
If enacted, HB 2279 would modify Chapter 179D of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, particularly concerning the safety inspections of dams and reservoirs. A significant aspect of the legislation is that it relaxes certain restrictions on dams if insurance coverage that mitigates risks is verified. This change aims to encourage owners to secure adequate insurance, which can potentially lead to enhanced safety standards as risk management becomes a critical component of dam oversight.
House Bill 2279 addresses dam and reservoir safety within the state of Hawaii. The bill mandates that the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) perform inspections with a focus on risk assessment and mitigation relating to dams. A notable feature of this bill is its provision for insurance coverage, which can affect the classification of a dam's hazard level. The legislation also stipulates that the burden of proof for determining whether a dam is high hazard lies with the DLNR, establishing specific criteria that must be met for classification.
The bill could stimulate debate between various stakeholders such as environmental groups, dam owners, and public safety advocates. Supporters may argue that the bill promotes accountability and safety through insurance-based evaluations. Conversely, opponents might express concerns that it could inadvertently favor dam owners over public safety by reducing regulatory burdens for those adequately insured. The introduction of a grant program for the improvement or removal of deficient dams could also draw scrutiny regarding the distribution of funds and accountability measures in assessing grant applicants.