HI HB425

Appropriates $50,772 for fiscal year 2019-2020 and the same amount 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 on Hawaii island's streams and coastal waters.

New position responsibilities include acquiring water samples, conducting watershed assessments and surface water tests, investigating complaints, and enforcing surface water regulations.

Addresses inadequate staff capacity to monitor contaminants from wastewater treatment plants, injection wells, and cesspools that harm coral reefs and threaten public safety.

Takes effect July 1, 2019.