This Act proposes amendments to existing laws, particularly Section 342L-35 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, articulating strict requirements for handling and responding to suspected or confirmed releases from underground storage tanks. A notable element of the bill is the establishment of a rebuttable presumption that any detected contaminants in the vicinity of a tank after a release is the result of that release. Such provisions are designed to ensure thorough investigation, prompt notification to affected communities, and effective remediation actions to restore contaminated environments to their original quality.
Summary
Senate Bill 2923 focuses on enhancing water quality in Hawaii by addressing the issue of contamination caused by underground storage tanks. The bill emphasizes the necessity for immediate actions to restore the environment after any confirmed releases of jet fuel or related substances from these tanks. It mandates that owners and operators of such tanks take proactive measures to empty the tanks and ensure proper closure, thereby preventing any potential harm to human health and the surrounding ecosystem. The overarching goal is to maintain Hawaii's pristine water resources, which are recognized as sacred and vital to life.
Contention
While the bill aims to protect Hawaii's vital water resources, it may spur debates regarding the financial burden on tank owners and operators responsible for compliance with the extensive requirements laid out in the legislation. There could be concerns about the potential economic implications for these stakeholders, especially regarding the cost associated with environmental restoration efforts. Proponents of the bill argue that the health and sustainability of Hawaii's water supply take precedence, while opponents might highlight the financial and operational challenges posed by such stringent regulations.
Requesting The Public Utilities Commission To Address Certain Recommendations For Undergrounding The State's Utility Facilities As Outlined In The 1999 Legislative Reference Bureau Report Entitled "undergrounding Public Utility Lines".