Hawaii Senate Bill SCR176

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Report Pass: 4/3/24
• Engrossed: 4/4/24
• Refer: 4/5/24

Caption

Urging The Department Of Land And Natural Resources And Board Of Land And Natural Resources To Adopt Certain Procedures Relating To The Dam And Appurtenance Improvement Or Removal Grant Program To Assist Applicants In Obtaining Grants.

Impact

By encouraging DLNR to develop transparent and fair criteria for grant approvals, SCR176 seeks to improve the efficacy of the grant program established under Act 134 of 2023. This aim is to bolster investment in the maintenance and improvement of dam infrastructure, which has suffered due to outdated regulatory frameworks and the decline of economically supportive industries like sugarcane and pineapple. Through improved grant processes, the resolution aims to mitigate risks associated with deficient dams, which are vital components of the state’s infrastructure.

Summary

SCR176 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution urging the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and the Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) to adopt specific procedures to streamline the Dam and Appurtenance Improvement or Removal Grant Program. The resolution highlights the importance of Hawaii's dams, reservoirs, and spillways for flood protection, water supply, hydroelectric power, and irrigation, yet acknowledges many of these structures do not meet current safety standards. The bill calls for assistance to applicants in securing grants for necessary improvements or removals of dangerous dams.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SCR176 appears to be generally supportive within the legislative context, focused on public safety and infrastructure improvement. There is recognition of the necessity for state intervention and streamlined processes to ensure the safety and functionality of existing dams. The resolution reflects an understanding of the challenges faced by dam owners and seeks to address them through procedural clarity.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential administrative burden on DLNR and the BLNR to implement these new procedures effectively. There may also be concerns regarding the equitable distribution of grant funds and the assurance that private dam owners can access resources fairly. The resolution recommends that the criteria for grant applications and decisions allow for clarification and appeals, aiming to enhance transparency and fairness in the application process, but the actual implementation of these suggestions may face operational challenges.