HI SB992

Clarifies that the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) may immediately assume control of vessels grounded on state submerged land, shorelines, or coral reefs if the owner cannot remove the vessel within 24 hours from grounding.

Allows DLNR to immediately assume control of vessels grounded on sand beaches, sandbars, or mudflats not in imminent danger of breaking up after the owner has been notified and given 72 hours to remove the vessel without taking action.

Specifies that vessel removal shall use conventional salvage methods when possible, and any other means necessary if conventional methods fail, to minimize natural resource damage and navigation hazards.

Establishes that all costs and expenses of vessel removal and any resulting property damage remain the sole responsibility of the vessel owner or operator, and allows DLNR to pursue legal action to collect costs.

Provides liability protection for persons rendering good faith assistance at vessel grounding scenes, exempting them from civil damages except in cases of gross negligence or wanton acts.