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SB 1320

RELATING TO SETTLEMENT OF CLAIMS RELATED TO THE MAUI WILDFIRES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 1320 creates the Maui Wildfires Settlement Trust Fund to provide timely financial support for individuals and businesses affected by the devastating wildfires.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1320

Summary of SB 1320: Relating to Settlement of Claims Related to the Maui Wildfires

Purpose and Intent

SB 1320 aims to establish a framework for the settlement of claims arising from the devastating Maui wildfires. The bill seeks to create a dedicated trust fund, known as the Maui Wildfires Settlement Trust Fund, to facilitate the financial management and distribution of funds related to these claims. This legislation is intended to provide timely and effective support to individuals and entities affected by the wildfires.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of the Maui Wildfires Settlement Trust Fund: The bill proposes the creation of a trust fund specifically designated for settling claims related to the Maui wildfires. This fund will be used to manage appropriations and disbursements for claims.

  • Appropriations: The bill includes provisions for appropriating funds to the newly established trust fund, although specific dollar amounts have not been detailed in the current version.

  • Amendments: The bill has undergone amendments as part of the legislative process, specifically noted in the Second Reading (SD 1). The nature of these amendments has not been specified but indicates adjustments made to improve the bill's provisions.

Affected Parties

The primary beneficiaries of SB 1320 will be:
- Individuals and Families: Residents of Maui who suffered losses due to the wildfires will have access to funds for claims related to property damage, loss of livelihood, and other related expenses.
- Businesses: Local businesses impacted by the wildfires may also seek compensation through the trust fund to recover from financial losses incurred during the disaster.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 21, 2025
  • First Reading: January 23, 2025
  • Public Hearing: Scheduled for February 7, 2025, at 9:25 AM in Conference Room 016 and via videoconference.
  • Committee Actions:
    • Referred to the Judiciary Committee (JDC) and the Ways and Means Committee (WAM) on January 27, 2025.
    • Reported from JDC on February 12, 2025, with a recommendation for passage as amended and referral to WAM.
    • Passed Second Reading on February 12, 2025.

Related Legislation

  • HB 1001: This bill serves as a companion to SB 1320, indicating that similar provisions may be considered in the House.

Conclusion

SB 1320 represents a critical legislative effort to address the aftermath of the Maui wildfires by establishing a structured approach to settling claims and providing necessary financial support to affected individuals and businesses. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final provisions and funding allocations associated with this important initiative.

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

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