RELATING TO CIVIL AIR PATROL.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 14 co-sponsors

HB 2241 boosts funding for the Civil Air Patrol in Hawaiʻi, enhancing emergency response and community safety through improved collaboration with local agencies.

Conference committee meeting to reconvene on 04-25-24 4:00PM; Conference Room 016.

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Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2241 (HB 2241) aims to enhance the operational capabilities and funding for the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) in Hawaiʻi. The bill seeks to address the needs of the CAP as a civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, which plays a crucial role in emergency management, search and rescue operations, and community service.

Key Provisions

Appropriation of Funds: The bill includes provisions for the appropriation of funds to support the operations of the Civil Air Patrol. Specific dollar amounts have not been detailed in the provided information.

Expenditure Ceiling: The bill addresses the exceeding of the General Fund expenditure ceiling, which may involve adjustments to ensure that the CAP can operate effectively within budgetary constraints.

Collaboration with the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency: The bill emphasizes the partnership between the CAP and the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency, enhancing coordination during emergencies.

Affected Parties

Civil Air Patrol: The primary beneficiary of this bill is the Civil Air Patrol, which will receive additional support and funding to improve its services.

Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency: This agency will benefit from improved collaboration with the CAP, potentially leading to more effective emergency response efforts.

Community Members: Residents of Hawaiʻi may experience enhanced safety and emergency services as a result of the CAP's improved capabilities.

Procedural Timeline

Introduced: January 22, 2024

First Reading: January 24, 2024

Passed through Committees: The bill has undergone several readings and amendments in both the House and Senate, including:

Passed Second Reading on February 13, 2024
Passed Third Reading in the House on March 1, 2024
Amended and passed in the Senate on April 9, 2024

Conference Committee: The bill is currently in the conference committee stage, with meetings scheduled for April 24 and April 25, 2024, to resolve differences between the House and Senate versions.

Conclusion

HB 2241 represents a significant legislative effort to bolster the Civil Air Patrol's capabilities in Hawaiʻi. By providing necessary funding and enhancing collaboration with emergency management agencies, the bill aims to improve public safety and emergency response in the state. The ongoing conference committee discussions will be crucial in finalizing the bill's provisions and ensuring its successful implementation.

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