HI HB1255

Establishes a minimum penalty of $50 per violation of the state water code, with maximum penalty remaining at $5,000 per offense.

Treats each day that a violation exists or continues as a separate offense, allowing penalties to accumulate for ongoing violations.

Requires the Commission on Water Resource Management to determine the specific penalty amount based on the nature, extent, gravity of the violation, violator's ability to pay, violation history, and culpability.

Allows penalties for continuing violations to be assessed from the earliest known date of the violation, or from the earliest date the commission becomes aware of the violation if the earliest date cannot be determined.

Takes effect upon approval.