Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR74

Introduced
3/8/24  
Refer
3/14/24  
Introduced
3/8/24  
Report Pass
4/3/24  
Refer
3/14/24  
Engrossed
4/4/24  
Report Pass
4/3/24  
Refer
4/5/24  
Engrossed
4/4/24  
Report Pass
4/15/24  
Refer
4/5/24  
Report Pass
4/15/24  

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Health To Conduct A Study Of The Methods Used In Other States To Monitor Air Pollutants Emitted By Municipal Waste Combustion Facilities.

Impact

The resolution aims to improve the state's approach to managing air quality through a detailed investigation of best practices in pollutant monitoring. By advocating for more effective and continuous monitoring systems, it seeks to address public health concerns associated with the emissions from waste combustion facilities. Additionally, the findings of this study will inform future legislative efforts to enhance environmental safeguards and protect the public from the adverse effects of pollution.

Summary

SCR74 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from Hawaii requesting the Department of Health to conduct a comprehensive study on the monitoring methods used in various states for air pollutants emitted by municipal waste combustion facilities. The resolution highlights the inadequacies of current monitoring technology, which is described as outdated and insufficient for accurately tracking the multitude of pollutants produced by these facilities. It specifically cites the failure of annual monitoring to provide a true picture of pollution levels, leading to dangerous underestimations of harmful emissions such as dioxins and hydrochloric acid.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR74 appears largely positive, with bipartisan support reflecting a commitment to advancing public health and environmental protection. Lawmakers recognize the importance of addressing air quality issues, particularly in areas impacted by municipal waste combustion. However, there may be contention regarding the resources allocated for such a study and potential regulatory changes that emerge from its findings. Stakeholders involved in waste management and environmental health are likely to scrutinize the proposed methods and their implications for operations and compliance.

Contention

Concerns may arise regarding the feasibility of implementing continuous monitoring technology and the associated costs of such systems. Some stakeholders could argue against changes in monitoring practices, fearing higher operational costs or regulatory burdens. Nonetheless, the resolution firmly establishes the need for better monitoring as a critical step in safeguarding Hawaiian residents from the health risks posed by air pollutant emissions, setting the stage for a more informed debate on environmental policy and public safety measures.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

HI SCR209

Requesting The Department Of Health To Conduct A Social And Financial Assessment Of Proposed Mandatory Health Insurance Coverage For Weight Management Medication.

HI SCR183

Requesting The Department Of Health To Conduct A Study To Assess The Health Care Needs Of The Residents Of Ocean View On The Island Of Hawaii.

HI SCR76

Requesting The Department Of Health To Conduct A Feasibility Study On The Implementation Of Continuous Monitoring And Sampling Technologies In Waste Combustion Facilities And Municipal Solid Waste Landfills.

HI SCR158

Requesting The Department Of Health And The County Of Hawaii To Conduct A Feasibility Study For The Implementation Of An Ambulance Service For The Town Of Makalei In The County Of Hawaii.

HI SCR82

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Performance Audit Of The Department Of Health, Hawaii State Hospital, And Hawaii Information Portal.

HI SCR114

Requesting The Department Of Education, In Collaboration With The Department Of Health And State Public Charter School Commission, To Conduct A Study On The Practices Of Managing Heat Exposure In Department And Charter Schools To Protect Students' Health During Outdoor Activities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.