Hawaii House Bill HR109

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Report Pass: 3/30/23
• Passed: 3/30/23

Caption

Urging All Branches Of The United States Military Operating In Hawaii To Implement Changes In Their Policies To Reduce, To The Extent Possible, The Use Of Products Containing Perfluoroalkyl And Polyfluoroalkyl Substances.

Impact

The resolution's intended impact is significant, as it aims to address the contamination problems associated with PFAS, especially at military installations in Hawaii where the firefighting foam Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) has been heavily used. The military's reliance on AFFF has contributed to high PFAS levels in groundwater and soil, threatening the health of local communities. With the resolution, the military is urged to not only reduce but ideally eliminate the use of PFAS-containing products and to adopt environmentally friendly alternatives that have been proven effective. This aligns with recent federal initiatives to phase out PFAS use by 2024, as authorized by the National Defense Authorization Act.

Summary

House Resolution 109, introduced by the Hawaii House of Representatives, seeks to urge all branches of the United States military operating in Hawaii to implement policy changes aimed at reducing the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These substances, often referred to as 'forever chemicals', are notorious for their persistence in the environment and their damaging health effects. The resolution emphasizes the environmental risks that PFAS pose, including contamination of drinking water and bioaccumulation in local wildlife. It references alarming scientific studies linking PFAS exposure to serious health issues such as cancers, fertility problems, and immune system suppression, underscoring the urgency for change.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HR109 is one of urgency and public health advocacy. Stakeholders, including state officials and environmental groups, largely support the resolution, highlighting the need to protect Hawaii's unique ecosystem and the health of its residents. Critics, if any, might argue about the feasibility of immediate change or the potential costs associated with transitioning to PFAS-free products. Nonetheless, the resolution has found strong backing among those concerned about environmental contamination and public health risks.

Contention

The resolution is not without its points of contention. While it primarily calls for action from the military, the implementation of these changes involves navigating complex regulatory frameworks and logistical challenges. There might be debates around the costs and timelines necessary for replacing AFFF with PFAS-free alternatives, and the military's capacity to manage the phase-out while ensuring ongoing safety in operations. Furthermore, transparency regarding past and present PFAS contamination and potential health impacts remains a pivotal focus, potentially leading to tensions regarding how openly such information will be shared with the public.