Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR146

Introduced
3/7/25  

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Convene A Working Group To Clarify The Purpose Of The Commission On Water Resource Management And Determine Whether The Leadership Structure And Composition Of The Commission Should Be Amended.

Impact

If implemented, the working group's recommendations could lead to significant modifications in the operational structure and authority of the CWRM. Among the points highlighted, the resolution suggests the introduction of a role for an Executive Director in the commission, potentially replacing the current First Deputy to the Chairperson. This change could enhance leadership effectiveness within the commission, and further recommendations may lead to stricter enforcement mechanisms concerning water use violations, thus impacting water resource governance across the state.

Summary

SCR146 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the Hawaii Legislature requesting the Department of Land and Natural Resources to convene a working group to clarify the purpose of the Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM). The need for this resolution arises from concerns regarding effective and efficient water management in the state, especially in light of growing climate challenges and the need to address local housing demands. By establishing a working group, the resolution aims to examine the current leadership structure of CWRM, ensuring that it is equipped to handle its responsibilities adequately.

Contention

There are potential points of contention that may arise due to the resolution's implications for local governance and resource management. Adjustments to the leadership structure and the broader powers of CWRM may face pushback from local entities concerned about a possible dilution of local control. Specific recommendations, such as allowing the CWRM to retain independent counsel or challenge emergency orders, may also spark debate regarding the balance of power between state and county authorities. Discussions on clearer notification requirements for water shortages could further lead to disputes over operational protocols.

Companion Bills

HI HCR197

Same As Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Convene A Working Group To Clarify The Purpose Of The Commission On Water Resource Management And Determine Whether The Leadership Structure And Composition Of The Commission Should Be Amended.

Previously Filed As

HI SCR73

Requesting The Establishment Of A Stream Maintenance Working Group Within The Department Of Land And Natural Resources.

HI SCR123

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Convene A Working Group To Make Recommendations On Solutions To Reduce Wildfire Risk And The Feasibility Of Establishing A Vegetation Management Program As It Relates To Landowners And Public Utilities.

HI HCR47

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Convene A Working Group To Inform The Public About The Options Available To Address The State's Feral Chicken Population.

HI HR36

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Convene A Working Group To Inform The Public About The Options Available To Address The State's Feral Chicken Population.

HI SR61

Requesting The Establishment Of A Stream Maintenance Working Group Within The Department Of Land And Natural Resources.

HI SR105

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Convene A Working Group To Make Recommendations On Solutions To Reduce Wildfire Risk And The Feasibility Of Establishing A Vegetation Management Program As It Relates To Landowners And Public Utilities.

HI HCR158

Requesting A Task Force To Be Established To Recommend Changes To The Structure And Administration Of The Commission On Water Resource Management To Improve Its Operations And Functions And Protect Its Mission.

HI SCR224

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Comprehensive Management Audit Of The Division Of Boating And Ocean Recreation Of The Department Of Land And Natural Resources.

HI HR137

Requesting A Task Force To Be Established To Recommend Changes To The Structure And Administration Of The Commission On Water Resource Management To Improve Its Operations And Functions And Protect Its Mission.

HI HCR146

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Comprehensive Management Audit Of The Division Of Boating And Ocean Recreation Of The Department Of Land And Natural Resources.

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HI HCR197

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Convene A Working Group To Clarify The Purpose Of The Commission On Water Resource Management And Determine Whether The Leadership Structure And Composition Of The Commission Should Be Amended.

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