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Bill

Bill

SB 17

RELATING TO WILDFIRE MITIGATION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lorraine Inouye

SB 17 proposes wildfire mitigation strategies for Hawaii, pending committee review of funding and implementation details during the 2026 legislative session.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · SB 17

Legislative bill overview

SB 17 addresses wildfire mitigation in Hawaii, though the specific provisions are not detailed in the available legislative history. The bill was introduced by Senator Lorraine Inouye and has progressed through initial readings, with referral to the Public Safety and Military Affairs/Water, Land, and Transportation committee and the Ways and Means committee, indicating it likely involves funding and resource allocation.

Why is this important

Wildfire mitigation is critical for Hawaii due to the state's vulnerability to destructive fires, which threaten communities, infrastructure, and natural resources. Effective mitigation policies can reduce emergency response costs, protect lives and property, and preserve native ecosystems—issues of significant concern given Hawaii's recent wildfire history and geographic constraints.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanisms: The WAM referral suggests budget implications; debate may center on whether proposed funding comes from general revenue, new fees, or reallocation of existing resources
  • Land management approach: Disagreement may emerge between agricultural interests, conservation groups, and government agencies over prescribed burns, vegetation clearing, and property owner responsibilities
  • Implementation authority: Questions about whether mitigation efforts prioritize public lands, private property, or both, and which agencies hold primary responsibility

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

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