Geothermal and subsurface exploration bill draws sharp community opposition; decision deferred
Feb 11, 2026
HB 1983, a bill to expand subsurface exploration and related authorities for natural‑resource projects, drew support from state agencies and DHHL but strong opposition from community members citing past geothermal harms and calls to preserve environmental review. The committee deferred decision making for further consideration.
The full story
HB 1983, a measure concerning subsurface exploration and natural resources, generated a split record on Feb. 10. State agencies including the Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) offered comments in support of the bill’s intent to improve data about subsurface resources and to enable development planning.
Sign up to keep reading.
Your free newsletter brings you what your city council, county, and school board discussed and decided.
Keep reading for free
Create a free account to finish this story and see the video, transcript and key details.
Continue with GoogleContinue with emailAlready have an account? Log in →