Bill > SB238

This bill establishes a three-year pilot program to address wastewater system challenges in Hawaii, particularly focusing on converting environmentally harmful cesspools in priority areas. The University of Hawaii at Manoa Water Resources Research Center will lead the program, conducting at least four demonstration projects across different counties, including one on Molokai, to test and evaluate new wastewater and toilet technologies for individual homes, multi-unit dwellings, and entire communities. The program aims to review the affordability, feasibility, and efficiency of these technologies, with a specific focus on areas identified as priority level 1 in the 2021 Hawaii Cesspool Hazard Assessment and Prioritization Tool. The center will be required to submit annual interim reports and a final report by 2029, detailing the technologies tested, number of cesspools converted, conversion costs, and recommendations for program improvement. Additionally, the bill appropriates funds to support two new engineering positions within the Department of Health's wastewater branch to help manage individual wastewater system applications and support the pilot program. The legislation recognizes the significant environmental and health risks posed by cesspools, particularly in coastal communities like Molokai, and seeks to develop more sustainable and cost-effective wastewater management solutions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=238&year=2026