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HI HB1983

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/26/2026

Primary Sponsor

Nicole Lowen

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Authorizes public research institutions to conduct geological subsurface characterization activities, including temporary borehole drilling for scientific data collection, without being subject to water well or mining permit requirements under chapters 174C and 182
  • Exempts temporary scientific boreholes from environmental review requirements under chapter 343 when conducted for non-commercial purposes such as studying groundwater levels, temperature gradients, and subsurface geological conditions
  • Requires public research institutions to register geological subsurface characterization activities with the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism and submit proposals including location, timeline, and groundwater protection measures
  • Mandates that the first borehole drilling site must be located on Department of Hawaiian Home Lands property, with DHHL approval required for any activities on trust lands
  • Designates the Hawaii Groundwater and Geothermal Resources Center at the University of Hawaii as the repository for all collected subsurface scientific data

Legislative Description

Relating To Natural Resources.

Appropriations ($)

Last Action

The committee(s) on EEP recommend(s) that the measure be deferred.

2/11/2026

Committee Referrals

Energy & Environmental Protection1/28/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available