Hawaii House Bill HCR126

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Refer: 3/23/23
• Report Pass: 3/30/23
• Engrossed: 3/30/23
• Refer: 3/31/23
• Report Pass: 4/20/23
• Passed: 4/21/23

Caption

Urging The United States Department Of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service To Take Certain Actions Regarding Fugitive Dust.

Impact

The resolution calls for several specific actions from the USDA NRCS, including the development of a set of reasonable precautions for landowners to implement to control fugitive dust. It also seeks to establish the best operational practices for maintaining dust levels and urges landowners to submit mitigation plans. By addressing the regulatory gaps concerning dust emission penalties and mitigation strategies, the resolution aims to create a more accountable framework for landowners of vacant and undeveloped properties who may currently lack incentives to manage dust emissions effectively.

Summary

HCR126, introduced in the Thirty-second Legislature of Hawaii, addresses the growing issue of fugitive dust originating from vacant agricultural land. The resolution urges the United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA NRCS) to take definitive actions aimed at mitigating dust emissions that can adversely affect both the environment and the health of nearby residents. The resolution recognizes that vacant lands can create significant dust storms, particularly during windy conditions, which not only contribute to topsoil loss but also lead to negative impacts on marine ecosystems and public health.

Sentiment

The sentiment among legislators appears to be generally supportive of the bill's objectives. There is a shared recognition of the need to protect the environment, marine life, and public health from the adverse effects of fugitive dust. The resolution reflects an understanding that existing health regulations may not be sufficient to compel landowners to mitigate dust emissions, highlighting the urgent need for more coordinated action at the federal level.

Contention

There could be contention surrounding the resolution in terms of how it may affect landowner autonomy and the potential costs associated with implementing mitigation plans. Some landowners may perceive stricter regulations as an added burden, especially those who are already facing economic challenges with vacant lands. The discussion may also reveal underlying tensions between environmental regulation and property rights, as the resolution seeks to impose additional responsibilities on landowners in order to protect broader public interests.