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Bill

SR 3

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 Ron Kouchi

Hawaii resolution urges Department of Education to open school recreational facilities to public during non-school hours and weekends to expand community access to exercise facilities.

Offered.
#doe #hawaiiassociationofcountiespackage #publicaccess #publicrecreationfacilities
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Bill Summary · SR 3

Legislative bill overview

SR 3 requests that Hawaii's Department of Education open school recreational facilities (gyms, fields, courts, pools) to the public during times when schools aren't using them—evenings, weekends, and non-school days. This is a non-binding resolution that directs the department to consider implementing such a policy rather than mandating it.

Why is this important

Community access to recreational facilities addresses public health needs by expanding affordable exercise opportunities, particularly in areas with limited private facilities. It maximizes the value of publicly-funded infrastructure by extending its utility beyond school hours, potentially reducing disparities in physical activity access across different neighborhoods.

Potential points of contention

  • Liability and safety concerns: Schools may resist increased public access due to liability exposure, insurance costs, and facility maintenance responsibilities when unsupervised public use occurs
  • Resource and staffing costs: Implementation requires funding for additional security, supervision, maintenance, and facility management during non-peak hours, which may strain already tight school budgets
  • Facility wear and oversight: Increased public use could accelerate wear on equipment and facilities, creating maintenance backlogs without clear funding mechanisms for repairs and upkeep

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

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