HI HR56

Requests the Hawai'i County Department of Water Supply to convene a working group to examine opportunities for increasing water access and strengthening water infrastructure for underserved communities on Hawai'i Island.

Urges the Department to invite experts in water resource development in barren areas, University of Hawai'i faculty conducting water resource management research, and community members to participate in the working group.

Requires the working group to submit a report to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2024, including findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation.

Identifies Ocean View, Miloli'i, and neighboring southwestern Hawai'i Island communities as lacking adequate county water infrastructure despite receiving approximately 26 inches of annual rainfall, compared to areas like Waikoloa that receive only 9 inches but have reliable water systems.

Directs transmission of certified copies to the Mayor of Hawai'i County, Chairperson of the Hawai'i County Council, Chairperson of the Hawai'i County Water Board, and Manager-Chief Engineer of the Hawai'i County Department of Water Supply.