Bill > SB271

This bill addresses statewide composting by requiring the Department of Health to develop a new classification system for composting facilities and operations. The legislation aims to encourage food waste composting by creating a more nuanced regulatory approach that considers the environmental benefits of composting while preventing potential health risks. Specifically, the bill requires the department to create rules that: encourage food waste composting, avoid unnecessary burdens on operators, consider climate and soil benefits, and evaluate health risks based on factors like waste volume and composting technology. The bill also amends agricultural district regulations to explicitly allow composting and co-composting operations in these areas, including on lands with class A or B soils. The legislature's motivation stems from the significant amount of food waste in landfills (25% of waste stream), the environmental benefits of composting (such as improving soil health and sequestering carbon), and the state's sustainability goals, including reducing waste and increasing local food production. To support implementation, the bill appropriates funding for a full-time program specialist position to update administrative rules related to solid waste.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=271&year=2025