Relating To The Cesspool Conversion Financial Assistance Pilot Program.
The pilot program will provide financial assistance in two forms: a rebate program that refunds up to fifty percent of the costs incurred for cesspool upgrades or conversion, and a direct replacement program that covers the total costs. By implementing this program, the act seeks to ensure residents of Maui County have the necessary support to upgrade their wastewater systems effectively. This financial assistance is crucial given reports indicating that many property owners lack the resources to make these necessary changes, particularly in designated priority areas as identified by previous assessments of cesspool impacts on health and environment.
SB794 establishes a Cesspool Conversion Financial Assistance Pilot Program designed to address the public health and environmental concerns related to cesspools in Maui County. The necessity for this legislation stems from Act 125, enacted in 2017, which mandates the upgrade or conversion of cesspools statewide by January 1, 2050, unless exempted. The bill highlights that cesspools, particularly in priority areas such as 'upcountry Maui,' have been shown to impact drinking water quality and the environment. This program aims to alleviate the financial burden on property owners who need to undertake these conversions, especially in light of the critical findings reported by the Department of Health.
While supporters of SB794 endorse the program for its potential to safeguard public health and prevent further environmental degradation, critics may express concerns over the pilot program's sustainability and funding adequacy. The bill includes provisions for the Department of Health to evaluate the program's effectiveness and report back to the legislature, giving room for further discussion on its impact and possible expansion to other areas. The legislation mandates a report to assess the total financial assistance distributed, the number of cesspools converted, and recommendations regarding the continuation of the program beyond its initial three years.