Bill > SB236

This bill addresses the environmental and health challenges posed by cesspools in Hawaii by implementing several key provisions. First, it accelerates the timeline for upgrading, converting, or connecting priority level 1 cesspools (13,821 in total) to be completed by January 1, 2035, and priority level 2 cesspools (12,367 in total) to be completed by January 1, 2040, with some exceptions for specific locations like recreational residences in state parks. The bill allows the Department of Health to grant exemptions for property owners who can demonstrate legitimate reasons why cesspool upgrades are infeasible, such as small lot size, steep topography, or planned sewerage upgrades. Additionally, the bill establishes an income tax credit for cesspool upgrades, conversions, or connections, offering taxpayers up to $10,000 per qualified cesspool, with a total statewide credit cap. The legislation also appropriates funds to support a cesspool compliance pilot grant project and requires the state Auditor to periodically review the tax credit program. The overall goal is to reduce environmental pollution, protect public health, and improve water quality by modernizing Hawaii's wastewater systems.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=236&year=2026