Bill > SB536

This bill requires the Department of Health to establish and operate a new environmental toxins testing laboratory with comprehensive capabilities. The laboratory will be able to test for diseases, detect toxins in air, water, soil, and biological specimens, and conduct high-complexity testing, ensuring compliance with the Clinical Laboratories Improvement Amendments of 1988. Any person who suspects the presence of environmental toxins can submit samples for analysis, and the department must provide complete test results within ten days of receipt. The bill authorizes the department to seek federal funding for the laboratory's construction and operation, but if federal funds are not secured within nine months, the department will use appropriated state funds to begin construction and initial operations. The Director of Finance is authorized to issue general obligation bonds to finance the laboratory, and the department must submit a progress report to the Legislature before the 2026 regular session. The appropriation for this project will not lapse until June 30, 2028, and the Act will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=536&year=2026