HI HB2196

Establishes a two-year stream maintenance reimbursement pilot program within the Department of Land and Natural Resources to reimburse homeowners for debris clearing costs near their property where flood risk exists.

Requires homeowners to submit applications for pre-approval before incurring debris clearing expenses, including photographic documentation; reimbursements for work done before approval are not eligible.

Caps annual reimbursement per homeowner at $2,000; other departments with stream jurisdiction must coordinate with DLNR to participate in the program.

Exempts department actions under this program from Hawaii Revised Statutes rulemaking requirements and requires a report to the legislature by twenty days before the 2024 regular session on program results and recommendations.

Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal year 2022-2023 for homeowner reimbursements; pilot program repeals on June 30, 2024, with effective date of July 1, 2050.