HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.B. NO.	2115
THIRTIETH LEGISLATURE, 2020		H.D. 1
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

 

 

RELATING TO RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY.

 

 

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

 

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used in building materials for its fire retardant and sound proofing properties.  However, microscopic asbestos fibers are barbed shaped and can lodge in the soft tissues of the lungs.  Over time, scar tissue develops around the fibers, and for those with acute exposure the airways can become blocked, a condition known as asbestosis.  Because of the health risks, a national ban was imposed on the use of asbestos as a building material beginning in the 1970s; despite the national ban, it is believed that, due to left over material stock, asbestos-containing material was still used in construction of residential properties in Hawaii until the mid-1980s.

     The legislature further finds that there are two categories of asbestos: friable and non-friable.  Friable asbestos can be released into the air by disturbing it by hand, while non-friable asbestos is typically mixed into vinyl or glue, encapsulating it.  Examples of friable asbestos that are most harmful to human health include popcorn ceiling texturing and the backing of sheet vinyl flooring.

     The purpose of this Act is to require the department of health to conduct an evaluation on asbestos exposure in single family residences in Hawaii.

     SECTION 2.  (a)  The department of health shall conduct an evaluation of:

     (1)  Asbestos exposure in single family residences in Hawaii; and

     (2)  The number of incidences of residential asbestos exposure in the State.

     (b)  The department shall submit a report of its findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2021.

     SECTION 3.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2050.

 

 

Report Title:

Asbestos; Single Family Residences; Report

 

Description:

Requires the Department of Health to conduct a report on asbestos exposure in single family residences and on the number of incidences of residential asbestos exposure in the State.  Effective 7/1/2050.  (HD1)

 

 

 

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