The implementation of SB2658 is expected to create a significant shift in the enforcement of water management regulations. Violators will face increased fines that reflect the gravity of their actions, ensuring that penalties are commensurate with the harm caused by non-compliance. This increase is meant to empower the Commission on Water Resource Management to actively enforce rules and ensure adherence to permit conditions, thereby reinforcing environmental protocols vital for the preservation of Hawaii's water resources.
Summary
SB2658, relating to penalties under the State Water Code, aims to amend existing statutes to bolster accountability for violations related to water resource management in Hawaii. The bill establishes a minimum penalty of $50 and a maximum penalty of $60,000 for each violation, with the stipulation that each day a violation continues constitutes a separate offense. By mandating these changes, the legislature intends to enhance deterrence against violations of the water code, which was established in 1987 to protect Hawaii's vital water resources.
Contention
While the bill is likely to receive support from environmental advocates and agencies focused on water conservation, it may face opposition from industries that rely on water access and could incur substantial penalties under the new scale. Critics may argue that the monetary penalties could disproportionately affect small businesses or individuals who may struggle to comply with regulatory requirements, fostering a debate on the balance between protection of public resources and the economic feasibility for those affected.