This bill seeks to amend Chapter 342B of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, entrusting the department of health with the responsibility to adopt feasible regulations that prohibit emissions from new small off-road engines, effective from January 1, 2024. The legislation aims to achieve a 100% zero-emission output from off-road equipment by 2030, thereby promoting the adoption of cleaner technologies. This transition aligns Hawaii with broader state and federal environmental goals and responds to the increasing public demand for sustainable practices.
Summary
House Bill 1546 focuses on regulating emissions from small off-road engines, primarily used in lawn and garden equipment. It identifies these engines as significant sources of air pollutants such as oxides of nitrogen and reactive organic gases, both of which contribute to ozone formation and subsequent health issues. Furthermore, these pollutants significantly contribute to climate change, and their regulation is imperative for Hawaii, which has declared a climate emergency. The bill aims to address both public health and environmental concerns by mandating the transition to zero-emission equipment over the next decade.
Contention
Key points of contention in discussions around HB 1546 may center on the feasibility of transitioning to zero-emission equipment, potential increases in electricity demand for charging these devices, and the impact on commercial operators currently reliant on traditional small engines. The bill also requires the health department to prepare a report by the end of 2023, recommending funding strategies such as commercial rebates to support this transition, which may invoke further debate regarding funding and implementation strategies.
Requesting The Department Of Health To Conduct A Feasibility Study On The Implementation Of Continuous Monitoring And Sampling Technologies In Waste Combustion Facilities And Municipal Solid Waste Landfills.
A bill for an act providing for a commercial fertilizer study conducted by the department of agriculture and land stewardship, and providing for conditional implementation.(See HF 942.)
A bill for an act providing for a pilot program to reduce the use of commercial nitrogen-based fertilizers to produce crops, and making appropriations.
A bill for an act providing for a pilot program to reduce the use of commercial nitrogen-based fertilizers to produce crops, and making appropriations.(Formerly HSB 165.)