WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HR 2

REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO MAKE AVAILABLE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES TO THE PUBLIC DURING NON-PEAK HOURS AND NON-SCHOOL DAYS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nadine Nakamura

Hawaii bill requests public recreational access to Department of Education facilities during non-school hours to expand community fitness opportunities and facility utilization.

Referred to EDN, referral sheet 15
#doe #hawaiiassociationofcountiespackage #publicaccess #publicrecreationfacilities
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 2

Legislative bill overview

HR 2 requests that Hawaii's Department of Education open its recreational facilities (gymnasiums, athletic fields, pools, etc.) to the public during times when schools are not in session—specifically non-peak hours and non-school days. The bill is a request rather than a mandate, giving the department discretionary authority to implement this policy.

Why is this important

Community access to quality recreational infrastructure is limited in many areas, and schools typically possess significant facilities that sit underutilized outside school hours. Enabling public use during downtime could increase access to fitness and recreational opportunities for residents while potentially generating revenue for schools through rental fees or usage charges.

Potential points of contention

  • Liability and maintenance costs: Schools would need to manage liability insurance, security, maintenance staff, and facility wear-and-tear from public use, potentially increasing operational budgets without guaranteed revenue offset.
  • School security and safety: Opening facilities creates access points and requires additional monitoring to prevent theft, vandalism, or unauthorized presence on school grounds, raising security concerns.
  • Implementation discretion: The bill only "requests" rather than requires action, meaning the Department of Education can decline without legal consequence, potentially limiting real-world impact.

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

Sign in to ask a question.