HI HB2161

Requires the water resources research center at the University of Hawaii at Manoa to conduct a study on increased safety standards for dams and reservoirs adopted by the Department of Land and Natural Resources under Hawaii Administrative Rules chapter 13-190.1.

Study must examine the economic impact on agricultural enterprises from lowered water retention capacity, the effect on aquifer recharging, and environmental impacts from increased stormwater runoff due to reduced dam and reservoir capacity.

Water resources research center shall consult with the Commission on Water Resource Management, the University of Hawaii economic research organization, and other relevant agencies in conducting the study.

Requires submission of a report with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the legislature at least twenty days before the start of the 2015 regular legislative session.

Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal year 2014-2015 to conduct the study, effective July 1, 2020.