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Bill

Bill

SB 2924

RELATING TO THE HAWAII EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Henry Aquino and 7 co-sponsors

Bill SB 2924 boosts Hawaii's emergency management by funding supplies, equipment, and warehouse facilities, enhancing public safety and disaster response capabilities.

Reported from PSM (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 2291) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM.
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Bill Summary · SB 2924

Summary of Bill SB 2924: Relating to the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency

Purpose and Intent

Bill SB 2924 aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) by providing necessary funding for supplies, equipment, and warehouse facilities. The bill seeks to ensure that HI-EMA is adequately prepared to respond to emergencies and disasters, thereby improving public safety and resilience in the state of Hawaii.

Key Provisions

  • Appropriation of Funds: The bill includes provisions for the appropriation of funds specifically allocated for the purchase of supplies and equipment essential for emergency management.
  • General Obligation Bonds: It proposes the issuance of general obligation bonds to finance the necessary expenditures, thereby allowing for immediate access to funds for emergency preparedness.
  • Warehouse Facilities: The bill emphasizes the need for improved warehouse facilities to store emergency supplies and equipment, ensuring that HI-EMA can respond quickly and effectively during crises.

Affected Parties

  • Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA): The primary beneficiary of this bill, as it will receive funding and resources to enhance its operational capabilities.
  • State of Hawaii Residents: The bill indirectly affects all residents by aiming to improve emergency preparedness and response, ultimately enhancing public safety.
  • Emergency Response Personnel: First responders and emergency management professionals will benefit from better resources and equipment, improving their ability to serve the community during emergencies.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 19, 2024
  • First Reading: January 22, 2024
  • Referred to Committees: January 24, 2024 (PSM, WAM)
  • Public Hearing Scheduled: February 5, 2024
  • Committee Recommendation: February 9, 2024 (Passed with amendments)
  • Second Reading: February 13, 2024 (Passed as amended, referred to WAM)

Related Legislation

  • HB 1930: This bill has a companion measure in the House, which may address similar issues or provide additional context for the funding and support of emergency management in Hawaii.

Conclusion

Bill SB 2924 represents a significant step towards bolstering Hawaii's emergency management infrastructure. By providing essential funding and resources, the bill aims to enhance the state's preparedness for emergencies, ultimately benefiting the safety and well-being of its residents. The bill is currently progressing through the legislative process, having passed its second reading with amendments and awaiting further consideration by the Ways and Means Committee (WAM).

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

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