Bill > HB750

This bill requires the Hawaii Department of Health to conduct a comprehensive statewide needs assessment to explore strategies for reducing waste generation, improving recycling, and establishing an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program for packaging materials and paper products. The assessment will examine current waste management practices across Hawaii's counties, analyzing waste streams, collection infrastructure, processing capabilities, market conditions, and potential environmental and economic impacts. The department must convene an advisory council with representatives from various stakeholder groups, including county waste management departments, producers, retailers, recycling service providers, and environmental organizations, to provide input and review the draft assessment. The needs assessment will investigate opportunities for source reduction, reuse, and refill practices, evaluate EPR programs in other jurisdictions, and consider equity and environmental justice implications. The bill appropriates $1,500,000 over two fiscal years (2025-2026 and 2026-2027) to fund this assessment, which must be completed and submitted to the legislature by December 31, 2027, with potential recommendations for future legislation. The assessment aims to help Hawaii transition towards a more circular economy by shifting waste management responsibility to product producers and developing more sustainable waste reduction strategies.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=750&year=2025