HB 1079 Summary

• Amends Chapter 342D, Hawaii Revised Statutes, to add four new definitions aligning with the federal Clean Water Act: "Act," "navigable waters," "water quality certification," and "water quality standards."

• Adds "wetlands" to the definition of "state waters" to expand the scope of water pollution control coverage.

• Consolidates water quality certification requirements into Section 342D-53, clarifying the Department of Health's authority as a certifying agency and establishing a five-year maximum term for certifications.

• Exempts applicants who received authorization from the Department of Land and Natural Resources for Hawaiian fishpond (loko i'a) restoration or small-scale beach restoration programs from needing a separate water quality certification.

• Increases civil penalties for violations of water pollution control laws and for obstructing department inspections, with penalty amounts left blank for legislative determination.