House of Representatives; acknowledge inequality as a public health issue and support BIPOC communities disproportionately affected by systemic barriers

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rhonda Burnough and 4 co-sponsors

HR 117 requests federal and state agencies to collaborate on enhancing Kolekole Pass as a safer emergency exit, benefiting local residents and emergency services.

House Second Readers

Bill Information

Bill Number: HR 117

Title: Requesting the United States Department of Defense, United States Army, United States Navy, and State Department of Transportation to work with appropriate state and county departments and agencies to expand, plan, and coordinate work related to using Kolekole Pass as an expanded emergency exit route.

Status: Reported from FIN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1823), recommending adoption.

Introduced: January 03, 2025

Classification: Resolution

Subject: Emergency Exit, Kolekole Pass, United States Army, United States Department of Defense, United States Navy

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 117 is to request collaboration among federal and state agencies to enhance the Kolekole Pass as an emergency exit route. This initiative aims to improve safety and accessibility in emergency situations, ensuring that residents and emergency services can navigate effectively during crises.

Key Provisions

Collaboration Request: The resolution calls for the United States Department of Defense, the United States Army, the United States Navy, and the State Department of Transportation to engage with relevant state and county departments.

Planning and Coordination: It emphasizes the need for planning and coordination efforts to expand the capabilities of Kolekole Pass as an emergency exit route.

Focus on Safety: The resolution highlights the importance of having reliable emergency routes to safeguard the community during emergencies.

Affected Parties

Local Residents: The enhancement of Kolekole Pass will directly benefit residents in the surrounding areas by providing a safer and more reliable emergency exit.

Emergency Services: First responders and emergency management agencies will have improved access during critical situations, potentially saving lives and resources.

Federal and State Agencies: The resolution requires cooperation among various governmental bodies, which may lead to increased funding and resources for infrastructure improvements.

Legislative Timeline

January 03, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Intelligence.

March 25, 2025: The committees on Transportation (TRN) and Public Safety (PBS) recommended the bill be passed unamended.

March 31, 2025: The Finance Committee (FIN) recommended the measure be passed unamended, with a vote of 14 Ayes and 0 Noes.

April 03, 2025: The resolution was adopted in its final form, with one representative voting no and two excused.

Conclusion

HR 117 represents a proactive approach to enhancing emergency preparedness in the region by improving the Kolekole Pass. By fostering collaboration among federal and state agencies, the bill aims to ensure that effective emergency routes are available, ultimately contributing to the safety and well-being of the community.

Bill