HI SB285

Establishes a three-year New Wastewater System Demonstration Pilot Program within the University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center to examine, demonstrate, and implement new wastewater technologies ranging from individual toilets to community-scale solutions.

Requires the pilot program to implement at least four wastewater system demonstration projects in Priority Level 1 areas designated by the 2021 Hawaii Cesspool Hazard Assessment and Prioritization Tool, with at least one project in each county and at least one on Molokai.

Directs the University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center to establish a ranking system similar to the Hawaii cesspool prioritization tool for the islands of Molokai, Lanai, and Niihau.

Requires annual reports to the legislature detailing wastewater technologies reviewed, cesspools converted, conversion costs, program efficiency recommendations, and suggestions for making the program permanent.

Appropriates funds from general revenues for the pilot program and funds from the water pollution control revolving fund to support two new full-time equivalent positions (one engineer and one planner) in the Department of Health's Wastewater Branch; pilot program terminates June 30, 2026.