Requesting The Department Of Health To Convene A Working Group To Assess The Feasibility Of Allowing Business Owners In The State To Utilize Filtered Water Collected By Water Catchment Systems For Business Activities.
Summary
SR99 is a Senate resolution requesting the Department of Health to convene a Business Activity Water Catchment System Working Group. The group would study whether business owners in Hawaii should be allowed to use filtered rainwater collected through water catchment systems for business activities, rather than limiting such water use to personal/domestic purposes under current law. The resolution frames the issue as part of Hawaii’s broader water-supply challenges, citing drought, aquifer stress, and recent water contamination concerns as reasons to explore alternative water sources.
The working group would include state officials, legislators, county water representatives, and public members. It is directed to evaluate the feasibility of business use of catchment water, the creation of a testing program within DOH, compliance with plumbing codes, and possible state assistance for safe implementation. The group must report recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the Legislature before the 2027 session and dissolve by June 30, 2027.
Impact
Because SR99 is a resolution rather than a bill, it does not itself change state law. Its practical effect is to initiate an interagency study process that could lead to future legislation or regulatory changes affecting the use of rainwater catchment systems by businesses. If the recommendations are adopted later, the resolution could influence public health rules, plumbing compliance standards, water testing requirements, and the scope of lawful water use for commercial purposes.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests generally favorable sentiment: the Senate Health and Human Services Committee passed the resolution with amendments by a 4-0 vote. The resolution’s findings and purpose are framed positively around water resilience, conservation, and economic support for local businesses. No opposing testimony or recorded committee debate was provided, so the overall tone appears supportive and exploratory rather than contentious.
Contention
The main policy tension is between expanding water catchment use for businesses and ensuring public health and regulatory compliance. Potential concerns include water safety, what contaminants should be tested beyond lead and copper, and whether existing plumbing codes can adequately govern commercial catchment systems. There is also an implicit jurisdictional issue between state and county water authorities over implementation and oversight. Supporters appear to emphasize conservation, resilience, and business flexibility, while any reservations would likely center on safety standards and enforcement.
Same As
Requesting The Department Of Health To Convene A Working Group To Assess The Feasibility Of Allowing Business Owners In The State To Utilize Filtered Water Collected By Water Catchment Systems For Business Activities.