SB2663 Summary

• Establishes a permitting process for geothermal resources development requiring applications to include assessments of geologic hazards, environmental/social impacts, compatibility with other uses, and potential benefits to the county and state.

• Mandates public hearings for geothermal development permits held on the same island as the proposed project, with notice published three times in local newspapers and mailed to landowners within 3,000 feet at least 20 days before the hearing.

• Deposits all penalties, fees, and costs collected by the Department of Land and Natural Resources related to mineral rights into the special land and development fund.

• Prohibits hydraulic fracturing operations within the state and prohibits collection, transport, storage, processing, or discharge of hydraulic fracturing waste fluids without a permit, with penalties up to $100,000 per violation; this prohibition expires July 1, 2025.

• Allows renewable energy producers to obtain mining leases on state lands either through public auction or by board vote without public auction.