SB543Introduced in the Senate
Relating To Water.
Introduced by Mike Gabbard, District 21
What does this bill do?
Plain-English breakdown
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Official description
Part I: Establishes a WAI Policy Coordinator and other positions within the Commission on Water Resource Management for coordination of Red Hill WAI initiatives. Creates the Red Hill Remediation Special Fund. Requires reports to the Legislature, Governor, and Mayor and City Council of the City and County of Honolulu. Appropriates funds. Part II: Allows the Commission of Water Resource Management to retain independent legal counsel. Repeals the position of Deputy to the Chairperson of the Commission and establishes the position of Executive Director of the Commission. Amends the composition of the Commission and administratively attaches it to DLNR. Authorizes entities to challenge an emergency order of the Commission under certain conditions. Establishes fines for certain water use offenses. Amends the Commission's authority to declare water emergencies and issue orders to address them and declare water shortages and related notice requirements. Specifies that the nominating committee of the Commission shall include one person appointed by the Chief Executive Officer of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
Where it stands
Re-Referred to WLA/EIG, WAM/JDC.
January 21, 2026
How did lawmakers vote?
No recorded vote is available for this bill yet.
What do people think?
Citizen Voice
How would you vote on this bill?
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Bill history
Introduced.
Passed First Reading.
Referred to WTL/EIG, WAM/JDC.
Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Re-Referred to WLA/EIG, WAM/JDC.
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