STAND. COM. REP. NO. 2186

Honolulu, Hawaii

, 2023

RE: S.C.R. No. 135

Honorable Scott K. Saiki

Speaker, House of Representatives

Thirty-Second State Legislature

Regular Session of 2023

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Energy & Environmental Protection, to which was referred S.C.R. No. 135 entitled:

"SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE LEGISLATURE TO CONVENE A WORKING GROUP WITH REPRESENTATION FROM ALL LEVELS OF GOVERNMENT TO DEVELOP A PROGRAM TO PHASE OUT THE USE OF PERFLUOROALKYL AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES (PFAS) IN THE STATE,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to request the Legislature to convene a working group with representation from all levels of government to develop a program to phase out the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in the State.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Makakilo/Kapolei/Honokai Hale Neighborhood Board No. 34, Hawai‘i Reef and Ocean Coalition, Climate Protectors Hawai‘i, Environmental Caucus of the Democratic Party of Hawai‘i, and five individuals. Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Department of Health; Island Energy Services, LLC; and one individual.

Your Committee finds that perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of chemicals used to make fluoropolymer coatings and products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. These "forever chemicals" do not break down in the environment, can move through soils and contaminate drinking water sources, and can bioaccumulate in fish and wildlife.

Your Committee further finds that various PFAS have been detected in soil and groundwater samples across the State that in some samples show levels that may pose a public health concern. While the State's efforts to minimize exposure to PFAS have been focused on locations where PFAS may be concentrated, including military bases, airports, landfills, and wastewater systems, this measure further protects the health and safety of the residents of Hawaii by looking to expand the gradual phasing out of the use of PFAS in all areas in the State.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Energy & Environmental Protection that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of S.C.R. No. 135 and recommends that it be referred to your Committee on Finance.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Energy & Environmental Protection,

____________________________

NICOLE E. LOWEN, Chair