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HR 12

URGING THE UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY TO PROVIDE FEDERAL ASSISTANCE FOR THE CITY AND COUNTY OF HONOLULU'S WASTEWATER TREATMENT INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Diamond Garcia and 10 co-sponsors

Hawaii legislature urges EPA to grant federal wastewater infrastructure funding to Honolulu, though the non-binding resolution carries no enforcement mechanism.

Referred to EEP, referral sheet 22
#federalassistance #honoluluwastewatertreatmentinfrastructure
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Bill Summary · HR 12

Legislative bill overview

HR 12 is a non-binding resolution urging the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to provide federal financial assistance to Honolulu's City and County government for upgrading its wastewater treatment infrastructure. The bill does not appropriate funds or create enforceable requirements, but rather expresses the Hawaii legislature's request for federal support to address aging or inadequate wastewater systems.

Why is this important

Aging wastewater infrastructure poses public health and environmental risks, including water contamination and ocean pollution affecting Hawaii's ecosystem and tourism economy. Federal EPA grants and funding programs can significantly reduce the financial burden on local governments, though such assistance is competitive and not guaranteed based on urging resolutions alone.

Potential points of contention

  • Non-binding nature: This resolution expresses intent but carries no legal weight; the EPA may prioritize other communities or funding criteria over this request
  • Federal funding competition: Multiple municipalities nationwide compete for limited EPA infrastructure grants, and Hawaii may not receive priority without demonstrating specific compliance gaps or environmental violations
  • Local cost-sharing expectations: Federal infrastructure programs typically require local matching funds; the resolution doesn't address Honolulu's capacity or willingness to fund its portion of improvements

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

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