SB2507 would appropriate state general funds to capitalize Hawaii’s water pollution control revolving fund for fiscal year 2026-2027. The bill is aimed at increasing the pool of money available for the water pollution control revolving fund loan program, which provides low-interest loans to state and county agencies for wastewater and other water pollution prevention and control projects.
The measure is framed as a response to the need for continued investment in wastewater infrastructure and the protection of groundwater and coastal resources. The bill states that the program has already supported 132 projects and about $1.3 billion in low-interest loans since 1991, and that additional capitalization would help advance future projects and reduce delays that could create health hazards for residents statewide. The bill would take effect on July 1, 2026.
Impact
If enacted, SB2507 would amend the state’s fiscal appropriations for the 2026-2027 year by directing general revenues into the water pollution control revolving fund established under section 342D-83, Hawaii Revised Statutes, and then authorizing expenditures from that fund for the loan program. The Department of Health would administer the spending, and state and county agencies seeking financing for eligible water pollution control projects would be the primary beneficiaries. The bill does not create a new regulatory program, but it would strengthen an existing financing mechanism used to support wastewater and pollution-control infrastructure.
Sentiment
The available context suggests generally favorable sentiment toward the bill. The measure is presented as part of the Hawaii State Association of Counties package and is described as a practical funding step to support infrastructure needs, environmental protection, and public health. There is no recorded committee testimony or vote history in the provided materials indicating opposition or division, and the bill’s findings emphasize broad benefits to the environment, economy, and resident health.
Contention
No specific points of contention are documented in the provided transcripts or vote history. Potential areas of debate, based on the bill text, could include the size of the appropriation, the use of general fund dollars, and competing budget priorities during the 2026-2027 fiscal year. However, the materials provided do not identify any named opponents, amendments, or substantive objections.
Relating to making supplemental appropriations and reductions in appropriations and giving direction and adjustment authority regarding appropriations.
AN ACT to make appropriations for the fiscal biennium commencing July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2028; providing definitions; providing for appropriations and transfers of funds for the period of the budget and for the remainder of the current biennium ending June 30, 2026 as specified; providing for carryover of certain funds beyond the biennium as specified; providing for employee positions as specified; providing for duties, terms and conditions and other requirements relating to appropriations for the remainder of the current biennium ending June 30, 2026 and the period of the budget as specified; providing for position and other budgetary limitations; continuing an account; authorizing grants and loans; discharging interfund loans; funding a higher education program; requiring an audit of funds; making conforming amendments; amending and repealing prior appropriations; and providing for effective dates.