HI HB503

Appropriates unspecified funding from general revenues for fiscal years 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 to support drought mitigation projects and measures in each of Hawaii's four counties.

Designates the Department of Land and Natural Resources to expend the appropriated funds for drought mitigation purposes.

Implements mitigation measures outlined in the Hawaii drought plan, which was developed with county drought committees formed in 2004 to address local drought challenges affecting agriculture.

Establishes coordinated emergency response mechanisms for immediate, short-term, and long-term drought response measures to help farms and ranches maintain reliable water supplies.

Takes effect July 1, 2051.