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GM 1234

Informing the Legislature that on June 24, 2026, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB2443 HD1 SD1 CD1 (ACT 133).

2026 Regular Session

Creates a dedicated disability integration specialist at HEMA to ensure ADA-compliant, disability-inclusive emergency planning, shelters, and communications.

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Bill Summary · GM 1234

Summary of GM 1234 (HB 2443 CD1, Act 133)

Main purpose and intent

  • The bill establishes and funds a disability integration specialist within the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HEMA) to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and related disability laws during all stages of emergency management (planning, preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation).
  • It addresses gaps in disaster services for individuals with disabilities, including those who use American Sign Language, by promoting accessible planning, shelters, communications, and post-disaster relief.

Key provisions and changes

  • Creation of disability integration specialist position: A new full-time exempt (1.0 FTE) role within HEMA to serve as an emergency management specialist focused on disability and access and functional needs (AFN). The position will coordinate disability-related planning, advise on best practices, ensure accessible disaster services, and support inclusion and equity in disaster management.
  • Expanded emergency management responsibilities: The act adds disability- and AFN-related planning and activities to HEMA’s designated functions, requiring integration of disability needs into all phases of emergency management.
  • Accessibility and ADA compliance: HEMA is required to ensure compliance with the ADA and related laws by integrating disability needs into emergency planning, shelters, communications, and interagency collaboration with disability advocacy groups and service providers.
  • Training and standards: The bill mandates ongoing training and the adoption of standards for state agency emergency operating procedures to align with disability-inclusive practices.
  • Coordination with federal guidance: The act aligns with Stafford Act provisions and FEMA guidance, promoting equitable access to disaster services for individuals with disabilities.
  • Funding: Appropriates $100,000 in general revenues for fiscal year 2026-2027 to establish and support the 1.0 FTE disability integration specialist at HEMA.

Who or what is affected

  • Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HEMA): Primary administrator and beneficiary; must integrate disability AFN planning and designate the new specialist.
  • Individuals with disabilities and AFN users: Expect enhanced accessibility in planning, communication formats, shelter services, medical care, and relief programs during disasters.
  • State and county emergency planning processes: Must reflect disability-inclusive standards and practices; coordination with disability advocacy organizations is emphasized.
  • State budget: $100,000 appropriation for the 2026-2027 fiscal year to fund the position.

Procedural and timeline details

  • Effective date: July 1, 2026.
  • Funding: $100,000 caveated to establish and support the disability integration specialist at HEMA.
  • Legislative history: Passed both houses in May 2026; signed into law by the Governor on June 24, 2026; designated as Act 133.

Potential impact

  • Improved accessibility and equity in Hawaii’s disaster planning and response for people with disabilities and AFN needs.
  • Stronger compliance with federal disability laws in emergency management operations.
  • Systematic integration of disability considerations across planning, sheltering, communications, and recovery efforts.

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

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