HI HB2141

Establishes a Dam and Appurtenance Improvement or Removal Grant Program administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources to fund plans, design, construction, and equipment for improving or removing deficient dams and appurtenances on private property.

Limits grant eligibility to owners of high hazard or significant hazard dams with identified deficiencies, with priority given to dams rated in poor or unsatisfactory condition.

Requires applicants to demonstrate sufficient funding availability for project completion, comply with anti-discrimination laws, and allow department monitoring and record access.

Appropriates $20,000,000 in one-time seed funding for fiscal year 2024-2025 for the grant program and $220,000 for operating expenses and two new permanent positions (1.0 FTE planner and 1.0 FTE accountant).

Takes effect on July 1, 2024, and includes a provision for exceeding the state general fund expenditure ceiling due to public interest needs.