Rep. Mahina Poepoe

Maddy summaryHCR 189 is a resolution urging Hawaii’s Department of Health and University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center to incentivize wastewater treatment plants to test sewage sludge, reclaimed water, and other residuals for PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances), known as "forever chemicals" that persist in the environment. It does not create new laws but calls for testing to prevent PFAS from entering food chains through agricultural use of contaminated materials, which can cause health risks like cancer and reproductive issues. The resolution specifically targets wastewater plants that supply materials for farming or irrigation, emphasizing testing as a step to protect public health and ecosystems. This is a non-binding request, not a regulatory mandate, focused on encouraging proactive testing and management.

Maddy summaryHR 183 is a non-binding House Resolution urging Hawaii's Department of Health and the University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center to incentivize wastewater treatment plants to test sewage sludge, reclaimed water, and other residuals for PFAS (forever chemicals). It does not create new laws but calls for testing to prevent PFAS contamination in agricultural use and drinking water sources. The resolution specifically requests administrative rules for safe disposal of PFAS-containing materials and restrictions on land application where PFAS is detected. This affects wastewater facilities, farms using reclaimed water, and public health by addressing PFAS exposure risks linked to food chains and environmental contamination.

Maddy summaryHB 213 appropriates state funds to support the Healthcare Education Loan Repayment Program, which helps healthcare professionals repay educational loans. The program directly assists licensed healthcare workers, such as nurses and physicians, who serve in underserved areas or specific healthcare roles. The bill specifies funding allocation with an effective date of July 1, 3000, though this date appears to be a placeholder error. No additional details about eligibility, funding amounts, or program administration are provided in the available context.

Appropriates funds to the Judiciary to support services contracted with community-based organizations that deliver essential services, streamline judicial processes, and support the judiciary's capacity to effectively meet the needs of vulnerable households. Effective 4/23/2057. (SD1)

Appropriates funds to the Department of Agriculture for agricultural biosecurity and the prevention, detection, and control of invasive species in Maui County. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial House Resolution (HR 209), not a legislative bill with policy changes. It formally congratulates four Hawaii education professionals for their 2024-2025 awards: Joseph Passantino (Hawaii Principal of the Year), Jennifer Pimentel (National Outstanding Assistant Principal), Jeffrey Horstman (Hawaii Assistant Principal of the Year), and Tommy Cox (Masayuki Tokioka Excellence in School Leadership Awardee). The resolution highlights their leadership achievements in improving student outcomes, staff morale, and community engagement at their schools. As a symbolic gesture, it has no binding effect or policy impact.

Maddy summaryHB 131 allows state government agencies to share certain government records with researchers for specific research projects. It directly affects researchers seeking access to public data and government agencies handling record disclosures. The bill establishes a clear process for agencies to release records when researchers demonstrate the work serves a legitimate public interest, such as policy analysis or community studies. The measure passed committee unanimously on January 28, 2025, with 8 representatives voting in favor. This policy change aims to improve data access for research while maintaining appropriate safeguards.

Allows the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to utilize the Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund as collateral when the Department acts as an eligible borrower for a loan agreement under section 184A of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992, as amended. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)

Establishes statewide goals for solid waste reduction and organic waste diversion. Requires each county to incorporate into its next integrated solid waste management plan revision a plan to divert certain organic waste generated within the county in alignment with established state benchmarks. Appropriates funds. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)

Authorizes the Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund to be used to provide financial assistance to underserved ratepayers, in addition to other eligible borrowers. Appropriates funds into and out of the Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)