HI SB1386

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 174C-62 to clarify the Commission on Water Resource Management's authority to declare water shortages and emergencies both within and outside of water management areas.

Expands water shortage criteria to include impacts and effects of the climate crisis when determining if a water shortage exists.

Extends publication requirements for water shortage notices from weekly thereafter to weekly for four months followed by monthly publications, and adds publication on the commission's website.

Allows the commission to impose restrictions on well and stream diversion owners and operators outside of management areas during water shortages, and to modify permit conditions based on water quantity or chloride levels.

Grants the commission authority to modify, suspend, or revoke water use permits after a hearing when a water shortage or emergency results in long-term or permanent reduction of available water sources; effective July 1, 2050.