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Bill

SB 1167

RELATING TO THE HAWAII HURRICANE RELIEF FUND.

2026 Regular Session

SB 1167 establishes a dedicated Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund to streamline financial aid distribution to communities and entities following hurricane disasters.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · SB 1167

Legislative bill overview

SB 1167 establishes or modifies the Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund, a dedicated financial mechanism to support recovery and relief efforts following hurricane disasters in Hawaii. The bill was introduced in January 2025 and carried over to the 2026 legislative session for continued consideration, indicating it requires further deliberation before passage.

Why is this important

Hawaii faces significant hurricane risk due to its geographic location in the Pacific, and having a dedicated relief fund streamlines disaster response and recovery resources. Pre-established funding mechanisms can expedite aid distribution to affected communities, businesses, and infrastructure compared to seeking appropriations after each event occurs.

Potential points of contention

  • Fund financing mechanism – Questions about how the relief fund will be capitalized (general revenues, insurance premiums, bonds, or federal matching requirements) and whether ongoing funding is sustainable
  • Eligibility criteria and distribution – Disputes over which entities qualify for assistance (individuals, businesses, nonprofits, agricultural operations) and how available funds are allocated among competing needs
  • Interaction with federal disaster programs – Coordination concerns regarding whether state funds supplement or duplicate FEMA assistance and potential impacts on federal aid availability

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

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