Hawaii Senate Bill SCR76

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

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

Caption

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.

Impact

If enacted, SCR76 could lead to significant changes in how pollution is monitored in Hawaii. The resolution identifies that the existing technology at waste combustion facilities is obsolete, which may result in the underreporting of harmful pollutants like dioxins and other toxic chemicals. By requiring continuous monitoring of a broader array of contaminants, the resolution aims to ensure accurate and real-time reporting of emissions, thereby improving public health protections and environmental oversight.

Summary

SCR76 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii that addresses the need for improved air quality monitoring at waste combustion facilities and municipal solid waste landfills. The resolution requests the Department of Health to conduct a feasibility study on implementing continuous monitoring and sampling technologies for various pollutants emitted from these facilities. It recognizes that current monitoring is often inadequate, only addressing a limited number of pollutants and failing to capture emissions during crucial operational phases such as startup or malfunction.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SCR76 appears to be generally positive among environmental advocates and health organizations, who argue that better monitoring will protect public health and enhance air quality standards. Conversely, concerns may arise from facility operators regarding the costs associated with implementing these technologies and potential operational impacts. As such, while the intent is to safeguard the environment, discussions may center on balancing economic implications for waste management operations and stringent regulatory requirements.

Contention

One notable point of contention may arise around the financial implications of implementing continuous monitoring systems. The resolution suggests seeking funding from users of waste facilities to finance the required changes. This could lead to debates about who bears the financial burden—facility operators, taxpayers, or consumers. Additionally, the necessity and scope of pollutants to be monitored will likely spark discussion among stakeholders including environmentalists, health professionals, and the waste management industry.