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Bill

SB 212

RELATING TO CESSPOOLS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Samantha DeCorte and 1 co-sponsor

SB 212 addresses Hawaii's cesspool regulations, likely imposing environmental or public health standards that could affect thousands of property owners' sewage disposal systems and associated costs.

Referred to HHS/AEN, WAM/JDC.
#cesspoolconversion #exemption #mandate
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Bill Summary · SB 212

Legislative bill overview

SB 212 relates to cesspools in Hawaii, though the bill's specific provisions are not detailed in the available information. The measure was introduced in January 2025 and is currently in committee review. Cesspools are underground sewage disposal systems commonly used in rural Hawaii where municipal sewer systems are unavailable.

Why is this important

Cesspools are a significant public health and environmental concern in Hawaii due to contamination risks to groundwater and coastal waters. An estimated 88,000+ cesspools operate across the islands, particularly affecting low-income and rural communities. Legislative action on cesspools typically addresses environmental protection, public health standards, or transition requirements to alternative systems.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation burden: Requiring cesspool upgrades or replacements could impose substantial costs on property owners, particularly affecting low-income households and small businesses
  • Timeline and feasibility: Aggressive phase-out deadlines may prove technically or financially impossible for some communities lacking alternative infrastructure
  • Rural versus urban equity: Disparate impacts on rural residents who lack access to municipal sewer systems versus urban areas with established infrastructure

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

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