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Bill Summary · SB 2748

Summary of Bill SB 2748: Relating to Emergency Management

Introduction

Bill SB 2748 was introduced on January 19, 2024, and is currently under consideration by the Senate Committees on Public Safety, Intergovernmental, and Military Affairs (PSM) and Ways and Means (WAM). This legislation aims to enhance the state's emergency management capabilities, particularly through the establishment of a Hazard Tracking System.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SB 2748 is to improve the state's preparedness and response to emergencies by implementing a comprehensive Hazard Tracking System. This system is designed to facilitate better monitoring, reporting, and management of hazards that may impact public safety and welfare.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of a Hazard Tracking System: The bill proposes the creation of a centralized system to track various hazards, including natural disasters, public health emergencies, and other threats to safety.

  • Reporting Requirements: The bill mandates that the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) develop and maintain protocols for reporting hazards effectively. This includes guidelines for data collection, analysis, and dissemination to relevant stakeholders.

  • Collaboration with Local Agencies: SB 2748 emphasizes the importance of collaboration between HI-EMA and local emergency management agencies to ensure a coordinated response to hazards.

  • Funding and Resources: While specific funding amounts are not detailed in the bill text, it is anticipated that the implementation of the Hazard Tracking System will require financial resources, which may be addressed in subsequent budget discussions.

Affected Parties

  • Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA): The agency will be primarily responsible for the development and implementation of the Hazard Tracking System.

  • Local Emergency Management Agencies: These agencies will collaborate with HI-EMA to ensure effective hazard tracking and response.

  • General Public: Residents of Hawaii will benefit from improved emergency preparedness and response measures, potentially reducing the impact of hazards on their safety and well-being.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 19, 2024: Bill introduced.
  • January 22, 2024: Passed First Reading in the Senate.
  • January 24, 2024: Referred to the Senate Committees on PSM and WAM for further consideration.

Conclusion

SB 2748 represents a significant step towards enhancing Hawaii's emergency management framework. By establishing a Hazard Tracking System, the bill aims to improve the state's ability to respond to various hazards effectively, ultimately safeguarding the health and safety of its residents. Stakeholders will need to monitor the bill's progress through the legislative process to understand its final provisions and funding implications.

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

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