Hawaii Senate Bill SR51

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/9/23
• Refer: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/17/23
• Report Pass: 4/4/23
• Passed: 4/5/23

Caption

Urging The City And County Of Honolulu To Exempt From Real Property Tax Those Property Owners Of Residential Units Within One-half Mile Of An Active Municipal Solid Waste Landfill Or Construction And Demolition Landfill Or Deemed To Have Been Impacted By An Active Landfill To A Degree That Warrants Such An Exemption.

Impact

If implemented, SR51 could significantly alter the financial obligations of homeowners residing close to waste disposal facilities. The tax exemption is intended to provide relief for individuals impacted by various environmental and health risks linked to nearby landfills, including respiratory issues and decreased life expectancy, particularly among marginalized communities. The resolution builds upon previous legislation, specifically Act 73 from 2020, which created buffer zones but did not account for the pre-existing conditions of residents near operational landfills.

Summary

Senate Resolution 51 (SR51) urges the City and County of Honolulu to exempt property owners of residential units living within a half-mile of active municipal solid waste or construction and demolition landfills from real property tax. The resolution reflects a growing concern for the health and environmental impacts faced by residents living near these landfills, especially given evidence of adverse health outcomes associated with such proximity. It is anchored in the belief that all communities deserve a healthy environment and aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens experienced by these residents due to the inevitable nuisances brought on by landfill operations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR51 appears to be predominantly supportive, especially among local advocacy groups focused on environmental justice and public health. Proponents argue that the exemption would provide necessary relief to vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by pollution and health hazards emanating from landfill operations. However, there may also be concerns from fiscal conservatives about potential budget impacts resulting from the exemption, which could spark debates regarding the allocation of city resources.

Contention

While SR51 is centered on altruistic goals of public health and environmental justice, it does not completely erase potential points of contention. Critics may argue that exempting property owners from taxes could lead to losses in municipal revenue, impacting public services. Furthermore, the resolution relies on subjective determinations of who is considered 'impacted,' which could lead to inconsistencies in application. The resolution's success will, therefore, hinge on clear guidelines and equitable administration by local authorities to address the diverse challenges faced by residents near landfills.