HI HB509

Increases minimum penalty from $0 to $50 and maximum penalty from $5,000 to $25,000 per violation of the State Water Code.

Expands violations subject to penalties to include: failing to obtain required permits, failing to comply with permit conditions, and failing to comply with water audit requirements under Act 169 (2016).

Redefines continuing violations so each day a violation exists constitutes a separate offense, with penalties assessed from the earliest known date of violation.

Requires the Commission on Water Resource Management to consider six specific factors when imposing penalties, including nature and gravity of violation, economic benefit gained, and good faith compliance efforts.

Takes effect on July 1, 2025.