HI HB1929

Defines "isolated wetland" as a wetland not included in navigable waters of the United States and "wetland" as areas inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater supporting vegetation adapted to saturated soil conditions, including swamps, marshes, bogs, fens, and similar areas.

Expands the definition of "state waters" to explicitly include wetlands and isolated wetlands, in response to a 2023 Supreme Court decision that limited federal Clean Water Act protections for isolated wetlands.

Requires the Director of Health to delineate all wetlands within Hawaii and determine whether each wetland is an isolated wetland or included in waters of the United States.

Prohibits persons from discharging water pollutants into state waters or at any location that may cause or allow pollutants to enter state waters, unless in compliance with the chapter, adopted rules, or a permit, water quality certification, or variance issued by the director.

Takes effect upon approval.