H.B. 736 Summary

• Establishes a three-year wastewater system technology testing pilot program within the University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center to evaluate new technologies for cesspool conversion alternatives.

• Appropriates $745,325 from general revenues for fiscal year 2025-2026 to fund the pilot program, with funds to be expended by the University of Hawaii.

• Requires the university to test new wastewater technologies and evaluate their affordability, feasibility, and efficiency in coordination with the Sea Grant College Program, College of Engineering, Department of Health, Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, and county agencies.

• Mandates annual interim reports to the legislature and a final report by January 20, 2028, including technology test results, program recommendations, and whether the pilot should become permanent.

• Pilot program terminates on June 30, 2028; Act takes effect July 1, 2025.