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Bill Summary · HB 1404

Legislative bill overview

HB 1404 addresses the closure and management of cesspools in Hawaii, establishing requirements and procedures for property owners to properly decommission these waste disposal systems. The bill aims to protect groundwater and environmental quality by phasing out or regulating cesspool use across the state.

Why is this important

Hawaii relies heavily on groundwater for drinking water, and cesspools pose significant contamination risks, particularly in island communities with limited water resources. Thousands of cesspools operate across Hawaii, and without closure requirements, they continue leaching waste into aquifers that serve both residential and agricultural needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden on property owners: Cesspool closure and replacement with approved septic systems or sewer connections can be expensive, potentially affecting lower-income homeowners and rural property holders disproportionately
  • Timeline and implementation feasibility: Establishing realistic deadlines for closure while accounting for geographic and infrastructure challenges (especially on neighbor islands) may prove difficult
  • Exemptions and enforcement: Determining which properties qualify for exemptions, deferrals, or alternative compliance methods could create inconsistent application or enforcement gaps

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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