Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to relieve the owners and operators of underground storage tanks and tank systems that have been removed from the ground of any responsibility to comply with the release response provisions in this chapter and any other requirements applicable to these owners and operators prior to the removal of the underground storage tanks or tank systems. The department, pursuant to chapter 91, shall adopt requirements for the change in service and temporary or permanent closure of underground storage tanks and tank systems, including requirements to prevent future releases of regulated substances into the environment.
HRS § 342L-37