Hawaii House Bill HB2031

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/22
• Refer: 1/28/22

Caption

Relating To Underground Storage Tanks.

Impact

The bill mandates the Department of Health to establish and implement administrative rules that exceed federal standards relating to underground storage tanks and systems. This move signals a proactive approach to mitigating environmental risks, especially in the wake of past incidents that resulted in severe public health concerns and the closure of local water sources. As such, this bill has the potential to significantly alter the legal and operational landscape for underground storage tank management throughout the state, prioritizing the safeguarding of public resources and community health.

Summary

House Bill 2031 addresses the critical issue of underground storage tanks in Hawaii, particularly focusing on the regulation and safety measures surrounding these tanks to protect the state's unique and delicate environmental resources. Following a significant incident in late 2021, where a large release of fuel from the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility led to widespread water contamination impacting thousands of residents, the bill aims to ensure stricter controls are applied than those outlined in federal regulations. This aim is contingent on preserving Hawaii's groundwater, the primary source of potable water in the state, from potential hazards posed by underground storage tanks.

Contention

While supporters of HB2031 advocate for enhanced safety regulations as necessary to prevent future environmental disasters, there may be debates regarding the practical implications of such stringent regulations. The establishment of the Red Hill Task Force is intended to examine various issues, including compliance by the U.S. Navy and the feasibility of eliminating or relocating the Red Hill facility, which may lead to differing opinions on how best to balance security needs against environmental concerns. This could result in ongoing discussions about the regulatory burden on military operations versus essential environmental protections.