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Bill

SB 3259

RELATING TO TORT LIABILITY.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Richards

SB 3259 protects lifeguards from liability when acting in good faith, encouraging more to serve and enhancing public safety at beaches and pools.

Reported from PSM (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 2393) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to JDC.
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Bill Summary · SB 3259

Summary of SB 3259 - Relating to Tort Liability

Overview

Bill Number: SB 3259
Introduced On: January 24, 2024
Current Status: Reported from the Public Safety, Intergovernmental, and Military Affairs (PSM) Committee with amendments and referred to the Judiciary Committee (JDC) on February 14, 2024.
Companion Bill: HB 2266

Purpose and Intent

SB 3259 aims to address issues related to tort liability specifically concerning lifeguards. The bill seeks to clarify the legal protections available to lifeguards while performing their duties, thereby encouraging more individuals to serve in these critical roles without the fear of excessive legal repercussions.

Key Provisions

  • Liability Protections: The bill proposes to establish specific legal protections for lifeguards, potentially limiting their liability in cases where they are acting in good faith while performing their duties.
  • Good Faith Standard: It introduces a standard that lifeguards must be acting in good faith and within the scope of their training and responsibilities to qualify for these protections.
  • Training Requirements: The bill may also outline necessary training or certification requirements for lifeguards to ensure they are adequately prepared to respond to emergencies.

Impact

  • Lifeguards: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are lifeguards, who may feel more secure in their roles knowing they have legal protections when performing rescues or other lifesaving measures.
  • Public Safety: By encouraging more individuals to become lifeguards, the bill aims to enhance public safety at beaches and pools, potentially reducing drowning incidents.
  • Legal Landscape: The bill could alter the landscape of tort liability in Hawaii, particularly concerning public service roles, by establishing clearer guidelines and protections.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 24, 2024: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.
  • January 29, 2024: Referred to the PSM and JDC committees.
  • February 5, 2024: Public hearing scheduled for February 9, 2024.
  • February 9, 2024: PSM committee recommended passage with amendments (5 Ayes, 0 Noes).
  • February 14, 2024: Report adopted; passed Second Reading as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC.

Conclusion

SB 3259 represents a significant step toward enhancing the legal protections for lifeguards in Hawaii. By clarifying tort liability, the bill aims to promote public safety and encourage more individuals to take on the vital role of lifeguards. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final form and implications of this bill.

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

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