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SR 105

REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES TO CONVENE A WORKING GROUP TO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS ON SOLUTIONS TO REDUCE WILDFIRE RISK AND THE FEASIBILITY OF ESTABLISHING A VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM AS IT RELATES TO LANDOWNERS AND PUBLIC UTILITIES.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Lorraine Inouye

SR 105 forms a working group to develop strategies for reducing wildfire risks in Hawaii, focusing on landowner and utility responsibilities for vegetation management.

Certified copies of resolution sent, 05-31-24
#departmentoflandandnaturalresources #firepreservation #landowners #legislature #utilities #workinggroup #thecountyofhawaiʻi #thecountyofkauai #thecountyofmaui
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Bill Summary · SR 105

Summary of SR 105: Request for Wildfire Risk Reduction Working Group

Bill Number: SR 105
Introduced: March 08, 2024
Status: Certified copies of resolution sent, 05-31-24
Classification: Resolution
Subject Areas: Department of Land and Natural Resources, Fire Preservation, Landowners, Utilities, Working Group, Counties of Hawaiʻi, Kauai, and Maui

Purpose and Intent

Senate Resolution 105 (SR 105) aims to address the growing concern of wildfire risks in Hawaii by requesting the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to convene a working group. The primary goal of this working group is to develop recommendations for solutions that will effectively reduce wildfire risks and assess the feasibility of establishing a vegetation management program. This program would focus on the responsibilities of landowners and public utilities in mitigating wildfire hazards.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of a Working Group: The resolution calls for the formation of a working group that will include stakeholders from various sectors, including landowners, public utilities, and representatives from the counties of Hawaiʻi, Kauai, and Maui.

  • Recommendations on Wildfire Risk Reduction: The working group is tasked with identifying and recommending strategies to minimize the risk of wildfires, which may include best practices for land management and vegetation control.

  • Feasibility Study for Vegetation Management Program: The group will evaluate the practicality of implementing a vegetation management program that would involve landowners and utilities in proactive measures to prevent wildfires.

Affected Parties

  • Landowners: Individuals and entities owning land in Hawaii will be directly impacted by any recommendations made regarding vegetation management and wildfire risk mitigation.

  • Public Utilities: Utility companies will need to consider the recommendations for managing vegetation around their infrastructure to reduce fire hazards.

  • Counties of Hawaiʻi, Kauai, and Maui: Local governments will play a crucial role in implementing any strategies or programs developed by the working group.

Legislative Process and Timeline

  • March 08, 2024: SR 105 was offered and introduced to the legislature.

  • March 14, 2024: The resolution was referred to the Committees on Water and Land (WTL) and Public Safety, Intergovernmental, and Military Affairs (PSM).

  • March 22, 2024: A public hearing was scheduled for March 27, 2024.

  • March 27, 2024: Both committees recommended the measure be passed with amendments. The votes were unanimous in favor of the resolution.

  • April 04, 2024: The report and resolution were adopted as amended (SD 1).

  • May 31, 2024: Certified copies of the resolution were sent out.

Conclusion

SR 105 represents a proactive approach to wildfire risk management in Hawaii by engaging stakeholders in a collaborative effort to develop effective strategies. The establishment of a working group signifies a commitment to addressing environmental challenges while considering the roles of landowners and utilities in maintaining safety and sustainability in the region.

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

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