Bill > SB619

This bill establishes a comprehensive four-phase plan for addressing contamination in Ulehawa Stream, primarily focusing on potential pollution from the PVT Integrated Solid Waste Management Facility. In Phase 1, the Department of Health's Clean Water Branch will review reports from PVT Land Company to verify compliance with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements, and assist in implementing additional pollution control measures if needed. Phase 2 involves developing a detailed sampling and analysis plan that includes dividing the stream into monitoring zones, collecting samples during wet and dry seasons, and comparing these samples against multiple water quality standards, including criteria for streams, estuaries, and recreational use. Phase 3 requires a thorough investigation of properties near the stream, including walking both stream sides to identify potential pollution sources, locating cesspools using dye tracers, and collecting additional samples as necessary. In Phase 4, the Department of Health will take regulatory action against property owners found to be contributing to stream contamination, with the burden of proof resting on the department to demonstrate the source and nature of pollutants. The bill also allows the Department of Health to adopt emergency rules, requests assistance from the University of Hawaii, and appropriates funds for implementing these phases, with the entire act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=619&year=2026