The proposed amendments will have a significant impact on state laws regarding excavation practices. By standardizing the requirements for excavation notifications, the bill aims to prevent potential emergencies caused by accidental damages to underground utilities. It specifically applies these requirements to excavators and locators working on residential properties, ensuring that homeowners are also encompassed by these safety measures. The bill emphasizes the necessity of maintaining public safety by mandating that incidents that cause the release of hazardous materials must be reported immediately to emergency services.
Summary
House Bill 2110 addresses the issue of advance warning for excavation activities in Hawaii. The bill proposes amendments to existing regulations regarding the notification requirements for operators when excavation work is performed. It introduces definitions for key terms such as 'locator' and 'release', emphasizing the importance of identifying subsurface installations to prevent accidents that result from excavation. This legislative effort reflects a commitment to ensure safety during excavation activities by requiring timely notifications, which will allow operators to disclose the locations of their infrastructure to mitigate hazards.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB2110 appears to be generally positive, with support highlighted for the proactive approach to enhancing public safety standards. Stakeholders, including utility companies and excavation contractors, recognize the need for clear guidelines and better communication to avoid accidents. However, concerns may arise regarding the regulatory burden on smaller contractors and the effectiveness of enforcing compliance with notification requirements, which could lead to debates among opposing interest groups.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the financial implications of compliance for smaller contractors, as adhering to the new requirements may necessitate additional resources or changes in operations. Moreover, the bill includes civil penalties for non-compliance, which could be viewed as excessive by some industry representatives who argue that education and guidance should precede punitive measures. The bill's effectiveness will largely depend on its implementation and the ability to balance safety with the operational realities faced by those in the excavation industry.
Providing for the injection of carbon dioxide into an underground reservoir for the purpose of carbon sequestration, for the ownership of pore space in strata below surface lands and waters of the Commonwealth, for conveyance of the surface ownership of real property; imposing duties on the Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Hearing Board; and establishing the Carbon Dioxide Storage Facility Fund.
The definitions of critical minerals and rare earth minerals and descriptions and definitions of minerals in leases and conveyances; and to provide for retroactive application.