Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB2085

Introduced
1/21/26  

Caption

Relating To Water Catchment Systems.

Impact

The bill is significant as it seeks to enhance the water supply options for businesses in rural parts of Hawaii. It acknowledges that many local business owners are at a disadvantage due to their inability to utilize natural resources like rainwater profitably. By potentially allowing them to use filtered catchment water, the legislation could foster economic development while promoting environmental sustainability. The findings from the working group will direct future legislative actions to amend existing laws and facilitate a broader use of these water systems.

Summary

SB2085 aims to address the pressing potable water shortages in Hawaii by establishing a Business Activity Water Catchment System Working Group under the Department of Health. This group's mission will be to assess the feasibility of allowing local businesses to utilize filtered water collected from rainwater catchment systems for commercial activities. The bill recognizes that existing regulations limit the use of captured water to personal use, thus impeding economic opportunities in rural areas lacking adequate water infrastructure.

Contention

While the bill presents a forward-thinking approach to mitigate water shortages and support local economies, it may raise concerns regarding the safety and regulatory compliance of using filtered catchment water in business operations. There may be contention surrounding health and safety standards for water quality as businesses implement these practices. Additionally, the establishment of this working group and changes to existing laws will require close collaboration between state and county officials to ensure adherence to plumbing codes and public health guidelines.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

HI SB836

Relating To Water Catchment Systems.

HI SCR118

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.

HI SR99

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.

HI SB386

Relating To Water Systems.

HI SB1222

Relating To Stormwater Management Systems.

HI SB1232

Relating To Wastewater Systems.

HI SB768

Relating To Taxation.

HI SB1221

Relating To Stormwater Management Systems.

HI SB1541

Relating To The Waiahole Water System.

HI SB1636

Relating To Wastewater Systems.

Similar Bills

HI HB1728

Relating To Rainwater Catchment Systems.

HI SB836

Relating To Water Catchment Systems.

HI SB836

Relating To Water Catchment Systems.

HI SR99

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.

HI SCR118

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.

HI HB690

Relating To Taxation.

HI SB768

Relating To Taxation.

HI HB690

Relating To Taxation.