Hawaii Senate Bill SCR102

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/11/25

Caption

Urging The Department Of Health And University Of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center To Take All Action Necessary To Incentivize Wastewater Treatment Plants To Test Sewage Sludge, Reclaimed Water, And Any Other Residual Material For The Presence Of Perfluoroalkyl And Polyfluoroalkyl Substances.

Impact

The resolution aims to ensure that wastewater treatment plants adhere to stricter monitoring protocols for PFAS, reflecting a proactive approach to mitigate public health risks. It emphasizes the need for regular testing and monitoring to address contamination that could potentially enter the food chain through agricultural practices. By urging the adoption of administrative rules for the disposal and regulation of PFAS-laden materials, SCR102 seeks to protect both the environment and community health.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 102 (SCR102) urges the Department of Health and the University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center to incentivize wastewater treatment plants in Hawaii to conduct tests for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in sewage sludge, reclaimed water, and any residual materials. The resolution identifies PFAS as harmful pollutants often referred to as 'forever chemicals' due to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks, which include various cancers and reproductive health issues.

Contention

While SCR102 primarily calls for enhanced testing and regulation, there may be contention surrounding the implementation of these measures. Stakeholders in the agricultural sector might express concerns over the financial and logistical implications of rapidly changing regulatory requirements, particularly regarding the use of biosolids and reclaimed water in farming. However, proponents of the resolution argue that the health benefits of potential prevention far outweigh any costs associated with compliance.