Proposes a constitutional amendment to ensure that the inherent and inalienable right of the people, including future generations, to clean water and air, a healthful environment and climate, healthy native ecosystems, and beaches, shall be protected and shall not be infringed. (SD1)
HB 2065 allocates general funds into the Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund to create more low-interest loans for eligible projects. The bill directly affects municipalities, businesses, or organizations seeking funding for water pollution prevention or cleanup efforts, such as wastewater treatment upgrades. Its key mechanism is using state funds to expand the revolving loan pool, allowing borrowers to repay funds that are then reused for future projects. This provides concrete financial support for water infrastructure improvements without creating new permanent spending.
Requires the Department of Health, in consultation with various agencies and professionals, to review rules and practices and propose changes that have the potential to make wastewater systems and cesspool upgrades more affordable without compromising water quality. Appropriates funds.
Proposes a constitutional amendment to ensure that the inherent and inalienable right of the people, including future generations, to clean water and air, a healthful environment and climate and healthy native ecosystems and beaches, shall be protected and shall not be infringed.
Clarifies the level of environmental restoration owners and operators of underground storage tanks or tank systems that had a confirmed release must satisfy by requiring the removal of all jet fuel, including fuel additives and all compounds resulting from the degradation of jet fuel or jet fuel additives or the reaction of jet fuel or jet fuel additives with water or other chemicals. Establishes a rebuttable presumption that the detection of these contaminants in the vicinity of an underground storage tank or a tank system after a confirmed release is a result of the confirmed release.
Defines "isolated wetlands" and "wetlands". Clarifies the definition of "state waters" to include wetlands and isolated wetlands. Requires the Director of Health to determine all wetlands in the State, including whether a wetland is an isolated wetland or is included in the waters of the United States. Prohibit persons from discharging any water pollutant into or at any location that enters state waters.
Replaces the current statutory prohibition on private shoreline hardening with a policy directing the minimization of these structures. Establishes a clear, time-limited statutory framework for emergency permits within the conservation district, including defined standards for permit duration and extension.
Implements a 4-phase plan for the Department of Health to address contamination of Ulehawa Stream. Requires the University of Hawaii to provide assistance. Appropriates moneys.
Proposes a constitutional amendment to ensure that the inherent and inalienable right of the people, including future generations, to clean water and air, a healthful environment and climate and healthy native ecosystems and beaches, shall be protected and shall not be infringed. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
Requires the Department of Health, to the extent allowable under federal law, to prioritize the use of Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund moneys for projects by homeowners to upgrade cesspools to director-approved wastewater systems or connect homeowners' properties to sewerage systems, including projects for the installation of cluster systems or community package plants. Effective 12/31/2050. (SD1)
