HB 662 Summary

• Imposes a cap on water rate increases (permanent, temporary, or interim) for domestic and agricultural uses, though the specific percentage cap is left blank in the bill text.

• Addresses concerns about excessive water rate increases approved by the Public Utilities Commission for Molokai utilities, where Molokai Public Utilities, Inc. raised rates from $3.18 to $6.04 per thousand gallons and Waiola o Molokai Inc. raised rates from $1.85 to $5.15 per thousand gallons.

• Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 269-16 to add subsection (h) establishing the rate increase limitation for water utilities serving domestic and agricultural purposes.

• Exempts existing rate adjustments and related refund obligations from the new cap through a non-severability clause stating the Act does not affect rights, duties, or proceedings that occurred before its effective date.

• Takes effect upon approval.