Hawaii Senate Bill SB515

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/21
• Refer: 1/27/21
• Refer: 2/4/21

Caption

Relating To A State Stockpile Storage Facility.

Impact

If passed, SB515 would specifically enhance the state's emergency management capabilities and infrastructure. By mandating that the Department of Defense collaborate with various agencies to identify appropriate locations for the stockpile facility, the bill also outlines critical operational criteria for the site. These include requirements such as securing the facility adequately, keeping it outside inundation zones, and situating it near first responder agencies to ensure quick deployment of resources during crises. The legislation reflects a proactive approach to disaster management in Hawaii, focusing on resilience in the face of future challenges.

Summary

Senate Bill 515, aimed at improving Hawaii's preparedness for natural disasters and pandemics, proposes the establishment of a state stockpile storage facility. This initiative is driven by the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted significant gaps in the state's ability to secure and distribute essential medical supplies. The bill recognizes the need for a centralized location to store non-perishable supplies, drugs, vaccines, and other critical items that could be deployed during emergencies. This facility is designed to support both state and local inventories, ensuring communities have access to necessary resources when local supplies are depleted.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for bolstering disaster readiness, it may also face scrutiny regarding budgeting and resource allocation. There is an unspecified appropriation from the state’s general revenues to facilitate this endeavor, which could raise questions among lawmakers about prioritizing funds during fiscal deliberations. Additionally, careful consideration must be given to the balance between state control and local autonomy in emergency management, as the centralization of stockpiling might affect the response capabilities of local governments.