Hawaii County Council advances single‑use plastics ban after hours of testimony

The Hawaii County Council on Nov. 19 passed Bill 83 (draft 2), a proposal to phase out single‑use plastic and polystyrene foodware, on first reading after a day of packed public testimony and a lengthy council discussion. The motion to pass the bill on first reading carried on roll call, 8 in favor and 1 opposed (Vice Chair Onishi).

The hearing drew dozens of speakers across Kona, Pahoa, Hilo and Zoom. Youth testifiers described seeing plastic pollution on beaches and reefs; community groups and Recycle Hawaii urged passage “as is.” Russell Ruderman, owner of Island Naturals, said the cost impact is manageable: “We never had to change our prices when we switched to compostable containers,” and urged the council not to create exemptions that would undermine the ordinance.

Small‑business and infrastructure concerns were raised by some in the food service industry. Steven Ueda, president of Suisun Company Limited, said he supports the county’s goals but opposed the bill as written, arguing Hawaii lacks the industrial composting capacity to process compostable foodware and recommending a data‑driven waste‑stream study before imposing mandates.

Councillors debated a proposed amendment (communication 482.14) to give businesses with 10 or fewer employees an additional year to comply. That amendment failed on roll call (2 in favor, 7 opposed). The council also heard technical testimony about certification (BPI/CMA) and enforcement logistics from industry and DEM staff. DEM officials told the council they would provide formal recommendations and data (including a planned waste characterization study) before second reading.

Action and next steps: Councilmember Villegas moved, and Councilmember Galimba seconded, the motion to pass Bill 83 (draft 2) on first reading; the roll‑call vote was 8 ayes, 1 no. DEM said it will submit its comments within the statutory 45‑day review window; a planned waste characterization study is scheduled for spring 2026. The ordinance proceeds to a second reading where council members may consider additional technical amendments or timing changes.

Quotes: “We never had to change our prices when we switched to compostable containers,” said Russell Ruderman (Island Naturals). “I support the county’s goal of reducing waste, but I oppose bill 83 because I am concerned whether the bill, as written, is right for Hawaii Island,” said Steven Ueda (Suisun Company Limited).

The council’s first‑reading action does not by itself change county code; second reading and a final vote are required to adopt the ordinance.