Bill > SB538

This bill addresses the disposal and reuse of municipal waste combustor ash (ash produced from burning municipal solid waste) by mandating stricter environmental and safety regulations. The legislature found that current disposal practices are based on limited short-term laboratory tests that do not adequately assess the potential health risks associated with the ash. The bill specifically requires that fly ash, bottom ash, or combined ash from municipal waste combustors must be disposed of exclusively in lined municipal solid waste or hazardous waste landfills, and prohibits their use for alternative purposes such as roadbuilding, construction material, daily landfill cover, or any other repurposing. The legislative findings highlight concerns about potential exposure to hazardous substances through inhalation or ingestion, especially if the ash is used in construction or roadways where it can erode over time and potentially create unlined landfill-like conditions. By amending Section 342H-30 of Hawaii Revised Statutes, the bill aims to prevent the inappropriate disposal or reuse of municipal waste combustor ash, with each day of violation constituting a separate offense. The act will take effect immediately upon its approval.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=538&year=2025