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 Senate Resolution (SR 83) urges Hawaii's Department of Health and the University of Hawaii Water Resources Research Center to take action encouraging wastewater treatment plants to test sewage sludge, reclaimed water, and other byproducts for PFAS (forever chemicals). It specifically recommends the Department of Health adopt rules for safely disposing of PFAS-containing materials and prohibit agricultural use of such materials if testing detects PFAS. The resolution addresses health and environmental risks linked to PFAS exposure, including cancer and ecosystem harm, but does not create new laws or mandates. As a non-binding resolution, it serves as a formal request for these entities to prioritize PFAS testing and management.