REQUESTING THAT THE OFFICE OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL AND THE STATE FIRE COUNCIL CLEARLY DEFINE STAGES OF WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION AND RELATED EFFORTS IN THE HAWAII STATE FIRE CODE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by David Alcos and 4 co-sponsors

HR 163 aims to improve wildfire management in Hawaii by defining suppression stages in the Fire Code, enhancing coordination and public safety during wildfire incidents.

Reported from PBS (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1593) as amended in HD 1, recommending referral to JHA.

#definitions #firecode #terminology #wildfires

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HR 163
Title: Requesting that the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the State Fire Council Clearly Define Stages of Wildfire Suppression and Related Efforts in the Hawaii State Fire Code
Status: Reported from PBS (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1593) as amended in HD 1, recommending referral to JHA.
Introduced: January 03, 2025
Classification: Resolution
Subject: Definitions, Fire Code, Terminology, Wildfires

Purpose and Intent

The primary aim of HR 163 is to enhance the clarity and effectiveness of wildfire suppression efforts in Hawaii by requesting that the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the State Fire Council develop clear definitions for the various stages of wildfire suppression. This initiative seeks to standardize terminology and procedures within the Hawaii State Fire Code, thereby improving coordination and response during wildfire incidents.

Key Provisions

Definition of Stages: The bill calls for a comprehensive definition of the stages involved in wildfire suppression, which may include initial attack, extended attack, and recovery phases.

Standardization: By establishing clear definitions, the bill aims to create a uniform understanding among fire service personnel, emergency responders, and the public regarding wildfire management efforts.

Integration into Fire Code: The defined stages will be integrated into the Hawaii State Fire Code, ensuring that all relevant agencies and stakeholders adhere to the same standards and practices.

Impact

Fire Service Personnel: Firefighters and emergency responders will benefit from a clearer understanding of their roles and responsibilities during different stages of wildfire suppression.

Public Safety: Improved definitions and procedures may lead to more effective wildfire management, ultimately enhancing public safety and reducing the risk of property damage and loss of life during wildfire events.

State Agencies: The Office of the State Fire Marshal and the State Fire Council will be tasked with the responsibility of developing these definitions, which may require collaboration with other state and local agencies.

Legislative Timeline

January 03, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Subcommittee on Border Security and Enforcement and the House Committee on Homeland Security.

March 07, 2025: Bill offered for consideration.

March 14, 2025: Referred to PBS and JHA.

March 18, 2025: Scheduled for a hearing by PBS.

March 21, 2025: PBS committee recommended the measure be passed with amendments.

March 27, 2025: Report adopted and referred to JHA as amended in HD 1.

Related Bills

HCR 168: This bill serves as a companion to HR 163, potentially addressing similar issues or providing additional context regarding wildfire management in Hawaii.

In summary, HR 163 seeks to improve wildfire suppression efforts in Hawaii through the establishment of clear definitions and standards, ultimately aiming to enhance public safety and operational efficiency during wildfire incidents.

Bill