Hawaii House Bill HCR163

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/14/22

Caption

Urging The Department Of Health To Prioritize Testing And Research Of Beach Sand Contamination Levels At Pokai Bay And Requesting The City And County Of Honolulu Department Of Parks And Recreation To Prioritize Renovations Of The Restroom Facilities At Pokai Bay.

Impact

The resolution calls for the Department of Health to develop a comprehensive approach to enhance water circulation at the bay, which is seen as crucial for improving water quality and reducing the health risks associated with contamination. It also emphasizes the need for collaboration with other state and county agencies to effectively address these environmental concerns. This initiative could lead to enhanced testing protocols and proactive management of pollutants in the area.

Summary

HCR163 urges the Hawaii Department of Health to prioritize testing and research concerning beach sand contamination levels at Pokai Bay. The resolution highlights the significant public health concerns arising from pollution sources that affect both the beach sand and water quality. As a popular destination on Oahu's Leeward Coast, Pokai Bay has reported contamination due to various factors, including runoff, illegal dumping, and pollution from boat activities, which together may contribute to health hazards for beach-goers.

Contention

Among the key points of contention is the acknowledgment of historical pollution patterns, particularly regarding illegal dumping and associated contaminants. The resolution references a 2015 study indicating that beach sand can harbor higher levels of fecal indicator bacteria than seawater, raising alarms about public health implications, especially in light of recent infections among beach users. Furthermore, the resolution requests that restroom facilities at Pokai Bay be renovated to mitigate potential sources of contamination and emphasizes the urgency of these actions to protect both environmental and public health.