Summary of SCR 167
Bill Overview
Bill Number: SCR 167
Title: Urging the Department of Health and Encouraging the County of Maui, United States Army Corps of Engineers, and Federal Emergency Management Agency to Take Certain Measures to Ensure the Safest Possible Management of Ash and Debris from the August 2023 Maui Wildfires.
Status: Referred to HHS/PSM
Introduced: March 07, 2025
Classification: Concurrent Resolution
Subject Areas: Army Corps of Engineers, Ash and Debris, County of Maui, Department of Health, EPA, FEMA, Hazardous Substances, Landfills, Waste Management, Wildfire
Purpose and Intent
SCR 167 aims to address the aftermath of the devastating wildfires that occurred in Maui in August 2023. The resolution urges various governmental bodies, including the Department of Health, the County of Maui, the United States Army Corps of Engineers, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to implement measures that ensure the safe management of ash and debris resulting from the wildfires.
The intent is to protect public health and the environment by establishing protocols for handling hazardous materials and waste generated by the fires.
Key Provisions
- Coordination Among Agencies: The resolution calls for collaboration between local and federal agencies to develop a comprehensive plan for managing ash and debris.
- Health and Safety Measures: It emphasizes the need for health and safety protocols to be established to mitigate risks associated with hazardous substances found in the debris.
- Waste Management Strategies: The resolution encourages the development of effective waste management strategies, including the proper disposal of ash and debris in compliance with environmental regulations.
Affected Parties
- Local Government: The County of Maui will play a crucial role in implementing the proposed measures and ensuring community safety.
- Federal Agencies: The United States Army Corps of Engineers and FEMA are expected to provide support and resources for effective debris management.
- Residents and Businesses: The resolution directly impacts residents and businesses in Maui, who may be affected by the health risks associated with ash and debris.
Procedural Timeline
- March 07, 2025: Bill offered.
- March 12, 2025: Referred to the HWN committee.
- March 28, 2025: A public hearing was scheduled for April 1, 2025.
- April 01, 2025: The HWN committee deferred the measure.
Related Bills
- SR 136: Companion resolution addressing similar issues.
- SR 141: Another companion resolution focusing on wildfire recovery efforts.
Conclusion
SCR 167 represents a proactive approach to managing the aftermath of the August 2023 Maui wildfires. By urging collaboration among various agencies and emphasizing health and safety, the resolution seeks to ensure that the community can recover safely and effectively from this environmental disaster.
