HI HB1997

Creates a new cabinet-level Department of Energy headed by a director of energy to consolidate energy development and management functions currently scattered across multiple state agencies.

Transfers all energy-related functions, authority, programs, and the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to the new Department of Energy.

Establishes the director of energy position with salary to be recommended by the Commission on Salaries effective July 1, 2019, and every six years thereafter.

Transfers employees, appropriations, records, equipment, and contracts related to energy functions from DBEDT to the Department of Energy while preserving their civil service status and benefits.

Becomes effective July 1, 2014.