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SB 454

RELATING TO THE HAWAII CORRECTIONAL SYSTEM OVERSIGHT COMMISSION.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Henry Aquino and 5 co-sponsors

SB 454 establishes a PFAS Mitigation Fund to finance efforts that ensure safe drinking water, especially for disadvantaged communities affected by PFAS contamination.

Carried over to 2024 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · SB 454

Summary of SB 454: State Water Resources Control Board: PFAS Mitigation Program

Purpose and Intent

SB 454 aims to establish a comprehensive program to mitigate the impact of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in California's water supply. The bill seeks to address the environmental and health hazards posed by PFAS, which are widely used in various industrial processes and consumer products. It emphasizes the need for equitable access to safe drinking water for all Californians, particularly disadvantaged communities disproportionately affected by PFAS contamination.

Key Provisions

  • Creation of the PFAS Mitigation Fund: The bill establishes the PFAS Mitigation Fund within the State Treasury, which will be used to finance PFAS remediation efforts.
  • Funding Sources: The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) is authorized to seek nonstate, federal, and private funds for PFAS remediation and treatment, which will be deposited into the PFAS Mitigation Fund.
  • Continuous Appropriation: Funds in the PFAS Mitigation Fund will be continuously appropriated to the SWRCB without regard to fiscal years, allowing for flexible and timely access to resources.
  • Eligible Expenditures: The SWRCB can use the funds for various purposes, including:
    • Grants, loans, or contracts to water suppliers and sewer system providers to cover costs associated with treating drinking water and wastewater to meet state and federal PFAS contaminant levels.
    • Technical assistance services to help local agencies manage PFAS contamination.
    • Costs related to the proper disposal of PFAS after treatment.
  • Guidelines for Fund Use: The SWRCB is required to adopt guidelines to ensure that funds are used effectively and transparently, with a clear purpose for public benefits related to safe drinking water, recycled water, stormwater, or treated wastewater.

Impact

  • Affected Entities: The bill primarily impacts water suppliers and sewer system providers, who will be eligible for financial assistance to manage PFAS contamination. It also aims to benefit communities, particularly those that are disadvantaged, by improving access to safe drinking water.
  • Health and Environmental Benefits: By addressing PFAS contamination, the bill seeks to reduce health risks associated with these substances, including cancer and immune system disorders, thereby promoting environmental justice and public health.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of October 1, 2025, the bill has been vetoed by the Governor, and consideration of the veto is pending in the Senate.
  • Legislative Journey: The bill was introduced on February 19, 2025, and has undergone several readings and amendments in both the Senate and Assembly before reaching its current status.

This legislation represents a significant step towards addressing the challenges posed by PFAS in California's water systems, aiming for a more equitable and sustainable approach to water quality management.

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

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