HI HB180

Creates a new cesspool conversion section within the Department of Health's wastewater branch to facilitate statewide conversion of cesspools.

Establishes that the cesspool conversion section shall manage state financing options, develop public outreach and education, inform owners of conversion options, manage federal and state grants, and partner with counties and private sector organizations.

Appropriates funds for two full-time equivalent permanent positions (Program Specialist VI and Planner IV) in fiscal year 2023-2024 and two additional positions (Program Specialist V and Contracts Specialist) in fiscal year 2024-2025.

Addresses Hawaii's estimated 80,000 cesspools that discharge approximately 50 million gallons of wastewater into groundwater daily and supports compliance with Act 125, Session Laws of Hawaii 2017, requiring conversion or upgrade of all cesspools by 2050.

Effective date of June 30, 3000 (note: unusually distant effective date in bill text).