S.B. 1232 Summary

• Establishes a three-year new wastewater technology testing pilot program within the University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center to test and evaluate emerging wastewater treatment systems that could replace cesspools

• Requires the program to coordinate with UH Sea Grant College Program, UH College of Engineering, Department of Health, Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, and county agencies to test technologies, evaluate affordability and efficiency, and submit results to the Department of Health

• Requires interim reports to the Legislature by January 2026 and 2027, and a final report by January 2028 with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation

• Appropriates unspecified general revenue funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to implement the program

• Pilot program ceases to exist on June 30, 2028