HI HB425

Appropriates $50,772 for fiscal year 2019-2020 and $50,772 for fiscal year 2020-2021 to the Department of Health's Clean Water Branch.

Funds one full-time Environmental Health Specialist IV position to monitor and enforce water quality and safety on Hawaii island's streams and coastal waters.

Authorizes the new position to acquire water samples, conduct watershed assessments and surface water tests, investigate complaints, and enforce surface water regulations.

Addresses inadequate staff capacity in the Clean Water Branch to monitor water safety and address contaminants from wastewater treatment plants, injection wells, and cesspools that harm coral reefs.

Takes effect on July 1, 2019.