URGING THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII WATER RESOURCES RESEARCH CENTER TO TAKE ALL ACTION NECESSARY TO INCENTIVIZE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS TO TEST SEWAGE SLUDGE, RECLAIMED WATER, AND ANY OTHER RESIDUAL MATERIAL FOR THE PRESENCE OF PERFLUOROALKYL AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES.

This concurrent resolution (SCR 102) urges Hawaii's Department of Health and the University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center to incentivize wastewater treatment plants to test sewage sludge, reclaimed water, and other residuals for PFAS ("forever chemicals"). It does not create new law but requests these agencies take action to require testing and develop rules for safe disposal of PFAS-contaminated materials. The resolution specifically addresses materials used in agriculture (like sludge as fertilizer) where PFAS could enter the food chain, citing potential health risks. It also urges prohibiting land use for agriculture if PFAS is detected in these materials. The resolution focuses on voluntary incentives and guidance, not mandatory enforcement.