Hawaii House Bill HB2156

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/22
• Refer: 1/28/22

Caption

Making An Emergency Appropriation To The Department Of Health For Costs Resulting From The Release Of Petroleum From The Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility.

Impact

The potential approval of HB2156 would significantly impact Hawaii's approach to managing environmental disasters, particularly those related to military operations. The emergency funding would facilitate necessary action to mitigate health risks posed to local communities and ensure compliance with state and federal drinking water regulations. This bill emphasizes a proactive stance from the state to safeguard public health by enacting measures to address the critical situation created by the petroleum leak. Furthermore, the foresight of pursuing cost recovery from the United States Navy is indicative of the state’s commitment to accountability in environmental management.

Summary

House Bill 2156, introduced during the Thirty-First Legislature of Hawaii, seeks to provide an emergency appropriation for the Department of Health in response to a significant public health threat stemming from the release of petroleum at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility. The bill details the urgent need for funding to support the department's emergency response efforts, which include staffing for additional water testing and contamination monitoring as well as laboratory testing for safety compliance. This emergency measure is regarded as essential for addressing immediate health concerns from contaminated drinking water observed by military personnel and local residents in the area.

Contention

While the bill aims to streamline response efforts and prioritize public health, it may invite discussions regarding the responsibilities of the U.S. Navy in maintaining the integrity of such facilities and the adequacy of their existing safety measures. Critics may argue about the efficiency of emergency funding utilization and whether state resources could effectively address the blockade of such environmental hazards in the future. These discussions are pertinent as they scrutinize the intersection of state regulations, military operations, and ecological stewardship.