HI HB2743

Require the University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center and Sea Grant College Program to develop an overlay with the Hawaii Cesspool Prioritization Tool to identify priority areas where county sewer systems or centralized treatment systems can most feasibly be expanded or constructed before January 1, 2050.

University shall consult with relevant stakeholders and consider factors including development density, proximity to wastewater infrastructure, existing county plans, timing, cost, and other relevant factors when developing the overlay.

Appropriate $350,814 from general revenues for fiscal year 2024-2025 to the University of Hawaii for developing the overlay, with unencumbered funds lapsing on June 30, 2026.

Addresses Hawaii's approximately 83,000 cesspools that discharge an estimated 50 million gallons of untreated sewage daily into groundwater and surface waters, threatening drinking water and marine resources.

Takes effect on July 1, 2024.