SB503 shifts dam safety risk assessment burden to Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources.

SB503 amends Hawaii's dam safety regulations by shifting the burden of proof for risk assessment from private dam owners to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. The bill establishes a grant program to fund improvements or removals of deficient dams, prioritizing those in poor or unsatisfactory condition. It mandates the department to consider dam insurance coverage as part of its safety assessments and allows for relaxed standards if valid insurance is verified.

SB503 shifts dam safety risk assessment burden to Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources.

SB503 amends Hawaii's dam safety regulations by shifting the burden of proof for risk assessment from private dam owners to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. The bill establishes a grant program to fund improvements or removals of deficient dams, prioritizing those in poor or unsatisfactory condition. It mandates the department to consider dam insurance coverage as part of its safety assessments and allows for relaxed standards if valid insurance is verified.