Bill > SB539

This bill addresses the establishment and modification of environmental action levels (EALs) by state agencies in Hawaii, focusing on ensuring public health and environmental protection. The legislation requires all state agencies monitoring environmental toxins to establish EALs based on the most recent scientific evidence, with specific procedural requirements for any modifications. Key provisions include mandating public notice and a minimum 30-day comment period before changing any EALs, including the publication of full scientific justification for proposed changes. The bill highlights significant discrepancies between local and federal environmental standards, particularly for contaminants like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), total petroleum hydrocarbons, and other toxic chemicals. It also empowers Hawaii residents to petition state agencies to modify existing EALs, ensuring a transparent and participatory process for environmental regulation. The legislation aims to align state environmental standards more closely with federal guidelines, protect public health by potentially lowering acceptable toxin levels, and create a more rigorous, scientifically-backed approach to monitoring and remediating environmental pollutants.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=539&year=2025