Bill > SCR102

This concurrent resolution urges the Hawaii Department of Health and University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center to take action to address the presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals," in wastewater treatment processes. The resolution highlights the significant health risks associated with PFAS, including potential links to various cancers, reproductive issues, and developmental problems, and emphasizes the chemicals' ability to enter the food chain through contaminated biosolids and reclaimed water used in agriculture. Specifically, the resolution calls for incentivizing wastewater treatment plants to test sewage sludge, reclaimed water, and other residual materials for PFAS, adopting administrative rules for safe disposal of PFAS-contaminated materials, and prohibiting permits for using such materials on agricultural lands or in flood-prone areas. The resolution also requests gubernatorial support and aims to protect public health by preventing PFAS contamination in soil, water, and food production. This action comes in the context of recent EPA rules and detected PFAS in Hawaii's drinking water, demonstrating a proactive approach to environmental and public health protection.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SCR&billnumber=102&year=2025