If enacted, HB 772 will amend the Hawaii Revised Statutes, particularly Section 174C-2, to allow for a broader interpretation of the state's water code that includes fire safety as a priority. The Department of Land and Natural Resources is tasked with collaborating with the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency and local authorities to develop protocols for utilizing reservoir water effectively for fire safety. This collaborative approach aims to address both the immediate firefighting needs and the sustainable management of water resources in the face of competing interests.
House Bill 772 aims to enhance fire safety measures in Hawaii by recognizing the use of water for fire safety purposes as a beneficial use in the state's water code. The bill was introduced in response to the devastating wildfires in West Maui in 2019, which affected 25,000 acres. The legislation emphasizes the need for maintaining adequate water levels in key reservoirs, which can be critical in combatting wildfires. By specifying fire safety use as a legitimate use of water, the bill seeks to improve the state's preparedness against fires, especially in high-risk areas.
The bill has raised discussions regarding prioritization of water use, especially concerning traditional and customary Hawaiian rights, as well as the conservation of wildlife and environmental integrity. While supporters argue that this legislation will significantly bolster fire safety efforts, critics express concern that it could compromise local ecological conditions and the rights of communities to manage their water resources. Therefore, the balance between enhancing fire safety and preserving ecological and community interests remains a key point of debate surrounding HB 772.