HB 1573 Summary

• Prohibits the board of land and natural resources from approving any water use permit that authorizes diversion of water from East Maui streams on public land for commercial purposes.

• Exempts the Maui County Department of Water Supply from the commercial use prohibition, allowing continued water supply to existing water users.

• Cites historic stream diversions in East Maui that caused damage to ecosystems, fisheries, cultural traditions, and subsistence communities, and notes the board's failure to comply with environmental impact statement requirements since a 2003 court ruling.

• Addresses the board's alleged abdication of its trustee role by failing to limit diversions, require water measurements, protect aquatic life, and enforce permit conditions.

• Takes effect upon approval.