HI SB3223

Creates a new regulatory framework for geological subsurface characterization activities conducted by public research institutions for non-commercial scientific purposes, including temporary borehole drilling for data collection on groundwater, geothermal conditions, and geological features.

Exempts scientific research boreholes from being treated as mining operations, geothermal exploration, or water wells requiring full permitting, provided they meet specific design, construction, and decommissioning requirements within three years.

Requires public research institutions to register geological subsurface characterization activities with the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism and submit detailed project proposals before drilling.

Directs the Department of Land and Natural Resources and University of Hawaii to amend their exemption lists to exempt certain geological subsurface characterization activities from environmental review requirements.

Designates the Hawaii Groundwater and Geothermal Resources Center as the repository for collected scientific data and requires the Department of Health to align hazardous waste rules with federal regulations for investigative-derived waste.