Requesting The Governor To Convene A Temporary Working Group To Investigate The Existence And Environmental Dangers Of Per- And Polyfluoroalkyl Substances And Other Related Chemicals.
SR84 is a Senate Resolution requesting that the Governor convene a temporary working group to investigate the existence and environmental dangers of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and related chemicals in Hawaii. The resolution describes PFAS as persistent man-made chemicals used in consumer products, industrial processes, and firefighting foams, and cites concerns about their links to cancer, liver damage, developmental harm, immune system effects, and endocrine disruption.
The working group would be asked to identify suspected or known contamination sites, including military installations, industrial sites, and landfills; test waterways, bodies of water, fish, and other animals consumed by humans; assess environmental and public health risks; review current regulations and practices; and recommend strategies for monitoring, remediation, prevention, and policy changes. The resolution also calls for interim reports before the 2026 and 2027 regular sessions and a final report before the 2028 session, including findings, recommendations, proposed legislation, and possible funding sources.
Because SR84 is a resolution rather than a bill, it does not directly amend Hawaii statutes or create enforceable regulatory requirements. Its practical effect is to urge executive action by the Governor and to establish a coordinated interagency and stakeholder process involving the Department of Health, Department of Land and Natural Resources, Department of Agriculture, the University of Hawaii System, and other relevant parties. The resolution could influence future legislation, appropriations, and agency policy by generating data and recommendations on PFAS contamination and response options.
The overall sentiment reflected in the available record is strongly supportive of investigating PFAS contamination and its risks. The resolution’s findings emphasize public health, environmental protection, food safety, and the importance of Hawaii’s limited freshwater resources, suggesting a precautionary and proactive approach. The Senate Agriculture and Environment committee passed the measure with amendments by a 5-0 vote, indicating broad bipartisan or cross-member support at that stage.
No direct opposition is shown in the available transcripts or vote record, but the resolution identifies areas that could become contentious in implementation. These include locating contamination at military, industrial, and landfill sites; determining the scope and cost of testing waterways and wildlife; and deciding how to balance environmental remediation with potential impacts on industry and other stakeholders. The inclusion of environmental organizations, industry representatives, and community groups in the working group suggests an effort to manage competing interests and ensure the process is inclusive.