REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A WATER ACCESS PILOT PROJECT DEMONSTRATING THE KOHALA REGION'S CAPACITY FOR A POTABLE WATER SYSTEM.

This concurrent resolution (SCR 168) requests the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) to develop a pilot project in Hawaii's Kohala region demonstrating the area's capacity to access drinkable water for a potential potable water system. It asks DHHL to create a pilot project showing how the region's geography could support a water pump storage hydroelectric facility, which would provide drinkable water, irrigation water, and renewable energy. DHHL must submit a report with findings and recommendations, including any needed legislation, to the legislature by early 2026. This resolution does not require DHHL to act but formally requests their study and planning.