Hawaii Senate Bill SB2371

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/24
• Refer: 1/22/24
• Refer: 1/29/24

Caption

Relating To Environmental Protection.

Impact

The introduction of SB2371 will directly impact existing state laws by amending Chapter 321 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. It will introduce a structured grant program that allows for financial assistance in testing for harmful substances. Moreover, the bill addresses compliance with legal standards, including prohibitions against discrimination, ensuring that the grants are utilized properly and that any activities funded adhere to relevant laws. This can be expected to foster a more comprehensive approach to environmental health and safety, empowering stakeholders to act against pollution and health risks associated with PFAS.

Summary

Senate Bill 2371 aims to enhance environmental protection measures in the state by establishing a PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) testing grant program. This program will be overseen by the Hawaii Department of Health in collaboration with the University of Hawaii. The bill is designed to provide necessary funding that will enable communities, businesses, and residents to conduct testing services and biological sampling to detect PFAS in various materials including water, soil, food, and consumer products. By focusing on these 'forever chemicals', this bill seeks to improve public health outcomes associated with chemical contamination.

Conclusion

Overall, SB2371 represents a proactive legislative effort to confront environmental health challenges posed by persistent pollutants like PFAS, underscoring the state's commitment to improving public health through targeted testing and remediation initiatives. The success of this bill will depend on community engagement, effective administration of granted funds, and ongoing dialogue regarding its budgetary impacts.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB2371 may arise around its funding provisions, as the bill anticipates exceeding the general fund expenditure ceiling for the fiscal year 2024-2025. This aspect has potential implications for the state's budget and appropriations distribution. Advocacy for public health improvements may be met with concerns over financial allocations in light of other pressing state needs. There can also be debates regarding the balance of state intervention versus local autonomy in addressing environmental issues, particularly in how funds are distributed and regulated.