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SB 2969

RELATING TO THE MAUI WILDFIRE EXPOSURE STUDY AND MAUI HEALTH REGISTRY.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 4 co-sponsors

SB 2969 creates a health registry and epidemiological study tracking long-term health outcomes for residents exposed to Maui's 2023 wildfires.

Conference Committee Meeting will reconvene on Friday 05-01-26 3:10PM in conference room 229.
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Bill Summary · SB 2969

Legislative bill overview

SB 2969 establishes a comprehensive health registry and epidemiological study to track health outcomes in Maui residents exposed to the 2023 wildfires. The bill authorizes data collection on exposure levels, health conditions, and long-term health effects resulting from wildfire smoke, ash, and environmental contamination across affected communities.

Why is this important

The August 2023 Maui wildfires caused significant loss of life and displaced thousands of residents. Long-term health impacts from wildfire exposure—including respiratory disease, cardiovascular problems, and mental health effects—often emerge over years, making systematic health tracking essential for identifying patterns, supporting affected residents, and informing public health policy.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy and data security concerns: Health registry systems require collection of sensitive personal and medical information; safeguards against data breaches and unauthorized access must be clearly defined
  • Funding mechanisms and long-term costs: Establishing and maintaining a health registry requires sustained funding; the bill's fiscal impact and funding source are critical details that may affect implementation
  • Equity in enrollment and follow-up: Ensuring all exposed populations—including low-income, immigrant, and underrepresented communities—participate equally in the study; disparities in healthcare access could skew results

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

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