Bill > SB438

This bill aims to protect Hawaii's agricultural lands and water resources by implementing several key restrictions on landfill development. Starting July 1, 2025, the bill prohibits constructing landfill units on agricultural lands with Class A soils, which are considered prime agricultural lands. The legislation narrows existing buffer zone restrictions to specifically apply to landfill units, requiring a minimum half-mile buffer between landfill units and residential, school, or hospital property lines. Additionally, the bill prohibits the construction, modification, or expansion of landfill units inland of underground injection control lines in counties with a population over 500,000, which effectively targets Oahu. The bill's motivation stems from recent environmental concerns, including a significant jet fuel leak in 2021 that contaminated water systems in Pearl Harbor-Hickam, which underscored the importance of protecting freshwater aquifers. The legislature argues that these restrictions are necessary to preserve agricultural lands, protect water resources, and ensure responsible waste management. The provisions apply to all entities, including state and county agencies, and include definitions for key terms like "buffer zone" and "landfill unit" to provide clarity in implementation.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=438&year=2026