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GM 1416

Informing the Legislature that on July 8, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB223 SD2 HD1 CD1 (ACT 303).

2025 Regular Session

Act 303 enhances wildfire prevention in Hawaii by requiring property owners to maintain firebreaks, funding community projects, and empowering the DLNR to manage fire risks.

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Bill Summary · GM 1416

Summary of GM 1416: Informing the Legislature of Act 303

Bill Number: GM 1416
Title: Informing the Legislature that on July 8, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB223 SD2 HD1 CD1 (ACT 303)
Status: Received
Introduced: July 08, 2025
Classification: Proclamation
Subject: Act 303

Purpose and Intent

GM 1416 serves as a formal notification to the Hawaii State Legislature that the Governor has signed into law Senate Bill 223, which is now known as Act 303. The primary focus of Act 303 is to enhance fire prevention measures across the state, particularly in areas vulnerable to wildfires.

Key Provisions of Act 303

Act 303 introduces several significant amendments and new initiatives aimed at improving fire prevention and control:

1. Amendments to Hawaii Revised Statutes

  • Section 185-1.5: Establishes the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) as the responsible agency for wildland fire prevention, control, and extinguishment within designated areas. The DLNR is tasked with developing plans and mutual aid agreements with local and federal fire control agencies.
  • Section 185-3: Empowers the fire administrator to review and approve fire prevention plans, issue burning permits, and close areas as necessary to prevent fire hazards.

2. Firebreak Maintenance Requirements

  • Property owners in hazardous fire areas must maintain effective firebreaks by clearing flammable vegetation within specified distances from buildings (30 feet and 100 feet under certain conditions).
  • Additional requirements include removing deadwood from trees and maintaining roofs free of combustible materials.

3. Community Fuels Reduction Project

  • The DLNR is mandated to implement a community fuels reduction project aimed at reducing hazardous wildfire fuels on state lands, especially adjacent to communities.
  • The project includes creating firebreaks, reducing flammable grasses, and providing necessary infrastructure for fire suppression.

4. Funding Appropriations

  • Act 303 appropriates $1,000,000 for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support the community fuels reduction project and related wildfire prevention measures.

5. Reporting Requirements

  • The DLNR must submit annual reports to the legislature detailing progress on the community fuels reduction project.

Impact of the Bill

Who Will Be Affected?

  • Property Owners: Individuals and entities owning property in designated hazardous fire areas will be required to comply with new firebreak maintenance regulations.
  • Communities: Residents living near state lands will benefit from enhanced fire prevention measures aimed at reducing wildfire risks.
  • State Agencies: The DLNR will have increased responsibilities and funding to implement fire prevention strategies.

Procedural Aspects

  • Act 303 is set to take effect on July 1, 2025. The provisions outlined will require immediate attention from affected property owners and state agencies to ensure compliance and implementation.

Conclusion

GM 1416 serves as an important legislative notification regarding the enactment of Act 303, which aims to bolster fire prevention efforts in Hawaii. By establishing clear responsibilities, funding, and community initiatives, the legislation seeks to mitigate the risks associated with wildfires and protect both natural resources and communities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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