HI SB44

Establishes minimum penalty of $50 for every violation of the state water code, raising the maximum penalty from $5,000 to $25,000 per violation.

Clarifies that each day a violation exists or continues to exist constitutes a separate offense, with penalties assessed from the earliest known date of the violation.

Requires the Commission on Water Resource Management to determine penalty amounts based on the circumstances of the violation, considering the nature, extent, gravity, history, and degree of culpability.

Appropriates funds for two full-time equivalent (2.0 FTE) general professional positions within the Commission on Water Resource Management to ensure compliance and enforce the water code.

Effective date is July 1, 2050.