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SR 156

Spires, Keshia; recognize

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by John Kennedy

SR 156 urges Hawaii's Public Utilities Commission to investigate the August 2023 Maui wildfires, ensuring accountability and improving future wildfire safety measures.

Senate Read and Adopted
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Bill Summary · SR 156

Summary of SR 156: Urging the Public Utilities Commission to Investigate the August 2023 Maui Wildfires

Purpose and Intent

Senate Resolution 156 (SR 156) aims to compel the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) of Hawaii to fulfill its statutory obligation under Section 269-9 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. The resolution specifically calls for an investigation into the causes of the devastating wildfires that occurred in Maui in August 2023. The intent is to ensure accountability and improve future wildfire mitigation strategies.

Key Provisions

  • Investigation Requirement: The resolution urges the PUC to conduct a thorough investigation into the factors that contributed to the August 2023 wildfires.
  • Focus Areas: The investigation should include:
    • Reliability standards and interconnection requirements for electric utilities.
    • Renewable energy procurement plans.
    • Conditions of utility infrastructure.
    • Existing wildfire mitigation plans.
  • Reporting: The PUC is expected to provide a detailed report on its findings and recommendations based on the investigation.

Affected Parties

  • Public Utilities Commission: The resolution directly impacts the PUC, requiring them to allocate resources and conduct an investigation.
  • Electric Utilities: Utility companies operating in Hawaii may be subject to scrutiny regarding their practices and preparedness for wildfire risks.
  • Residents of Maui: The resolution is particularly significant for the residents affected by the wildfires, as it seeks to address safety and reliability concerns related to electric utilities.

Legislative Actions and Timeline

  • Introduced: March 08, 2024
  • Public Hearing: Scheduled for March 22, 2024, at 9:36 AM in Conference Room 229 and via videoconference.
  • Committee Recommendations:
    • The committees on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Public Safety (CPN/PSM) recommended the resolution be passed with amendments on March 22, 2024.
  • Adoption: The resolution was adopted, as amended, on April 04, 2024.
  • Certification: Certified copies of the resolution were sent on May 31, 2024.

Related Legislation

  • SCR 182: This resolution has a companion bill, SCR 182, which may address similar issues or provide additional context regarding the investigation into the wildfires.

Conclusion

SR 156 serves as a critical legislative measure aimed at ensuring the PUC takes necessary actions to investigate the causes of the August 2023 Maui wildfires. By focusing on utility practices and infrastructure, the resolution seeks to enhance public safety and prevent future disasters.

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

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