HB 2264 Summary

• Establishes a three-year new wastewater system demonstration and implementation pilot program within the University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program, in coordination with the University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center.

• Requires the pilot program to examine and demonstrate new wastewater technology systems ranging from individual toilets to multi-unit systems, with emphasis on reducing nitrogen waste that harms coral reefs.

• Mandates implementation of at least four wastewater system demonstration projects, with each project including cesspools designated as priority level one and at least one project in each county.

• Requires annual reports to the legislature detailing technologies reviewed, number of cesspools converted, conversion costs, program efficiency recommendations, and whether the program should be made permanent.

• Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal year 2024-2025 and sets the pilot program to expire on June 30, 2027.