Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HB1586

Introduced
1/17/24  
Refer
1/24/24  
Introduced
1/17/24  

Caption

Relating To Cesspools.

Impact

The core of HB1586 lies in its directive for the Department of Health to conduct a feasibility study for establishing a wastewater treatment works project in Waialua. This study will evaluate the potential for neighborhoods to connect to existing sewer systems, starting with the community of Ranch Camp. The findings from this study are expected to provide a structured pathway towards addressing cesspool conversion, thus contributing to the protection and regulation of water resources mandated by the Hawaii State Constitution.

Summary

House Bill 1586 addresses the significant environmental and public health risks posed by the approximate eighty-three thousand cesspools currently in use across Hawaii. The bill recognizes the critical issue of cesspool contamination affecting ground water, drinking water, and coastal ecosystems, particularly emphasizing areas at high risk for human health impacts. It aligns with previous legislative efforts, such as Act 125, which mandates the upgrade or conversion of cesspools to approved wastewater systems by January 1, 2050. This bill specifically aims to facilitate the first steps toward that conversion requirement in the Waialua region of Oahu.

Contention

While HB1586 seeks to implement necessary changes for public health and environmental protection, discussions surrounding it include potential concerns related to funding and feasibility. The appropriations for the feasibility study have raised discussions on whether they will exceed state expenditure ceilings, which is a point of contention in the legislative context. Additionally, implications of such a project may include resistance from communities that could be affected by the interconnection mandate, or from stakeholders concerned about implementation costs and logistical challenges in upgrading infrastructure.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

HI HB1892

Relating To Cesspools.

HI SB2426

Relating To Cesspools.

HI HB2264

Relating To Cesspools.

HI HB1894

Relating To Cesspools.

HI SB2425

Relating To Cesspools.

HI HB1396

Relating To Cesspools.

HI HB1396

Relating To Cesspools.

HI SB1466

Relating To Cesspools.

HI SB1466

Relating To Cesspools.

HI SB405

Relating To Cesspools.

Similar Bills

HI SB2513

Relating To Wastewater Systems.

HI HB2066

Relating To Financing.

HI HB1892

Relating To Cesspools.

HI SB2426

Relating To Cesspools.

HI SB2498

Relating To Financing.

HI HB2743

Relating To Wastewater.

HI SB405

Relating To Cesspools.

HI SB405

Relating To Cesspools.