Hawaii House Bill HB2244

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/22
• Refer: 1/28/22

Caption

Relating To The Hawaii Public Wireless Safety Act.

Impact

The act mandates the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to create a central data repository to store and provide access to information about radio frequency emissions. This repository will assist in compliance with federal regulations regarding safety limits for radio frequency exposure. Furthermore, the bill enables the development of standards for visual depictions of emission data, aiming to improve public awareness and promote transparency in wireless infrastructure operations. Effective execution of this act may place Hawaii at the forefront regarding accountability and safety in wireless technology deployment.

Summary

House Bill 2244, known as the Hawaii Public Wireless Safety Act, aims to promote responsible growth and management of wireless technologies in the state. As Hawaii continues to increase its wireless infrastructure to accommodate 5G and future technologies, the bill establishes a framework for better regulation of radio frequency emissions. It seeks to ensure that the expansion of wireless antennas is managed in a way that prioritizes public health and provides reliable data concerning potential exposure to radio frequency emissions. The bill anticipates that such regulations will help mitigate public concern shaped by speculation and misinformation surrounding wireless technology.

Contention

Among the notable points of contention surrounding HB 2244 are concerns regarding potential costs associated with the implementation of the safety framework. The bill introduces a wireless safety surcharge applicable to all wireless communications service providers, which will be billed to consumers. This surcharge could be met with resistance from both service providers and customers who may view it as an additional financial burden. Additionally, the requirement for providers to remit funds to the newly established public wireless safety fund raises questions about fiscal responsibility and the effectiveness of the proposed financial management practices.