Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB553

Introduced
1/22/21  

Caption

Relating To Smoking.

Impact

The legislation amends Section 127A-13 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to explicitly grant the governor the authority to impose smoking prohibitions as part of emergency management efforts. This change is significant as it seeks to fill a legislative gap by allowing for immediate action to mitigate health risks associated with smoking in shared living spaces during emergencies, which could be crucial in preventing health crises among vulnerable populations.

Summary

Senate Bill 553 aims to enhance public health measures during states of emergency, particularly in relation to smoking in multi-unit residential buildings. The bill enables the governor of Hawaii to prohibit smoking in such residences during a declared emergency, which is especially relevant during events that require residents to shelter in place, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative is driven by the need to protect the health of individuals with respiratory diseases and multiple chemical sensitivities from the adverse effects of tobacco smoke during heightened health crises.

Conclusion

Overall, SB553 represents a proactive approach to safeguarding public health in Hawaii, particularly in addressing the unique challenges posed by multi-unit living arrangements during emergencies. Its enactment could lead to broader discussions on tobacco regulation and public health policy, potentially serving as a model for similar legislation in other states.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to protect certain populations from harmful smoke exposure during emergencies, it may raise concerns about personal freedoms and property rights among smokers and landlords. Critics could argue that such restrictions might infringe on individual rights to engage in lawful activities within private properties. The balance between public health interests and personal liberties is likely to be a central point of discussion among lawmakers and stakeholders during the bill's consideration.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

HI HB1666

Relating To Smoking.

HI HB2276

Relating To Smoking.

HI SB3200

Relating To Smoking.

HI SB729

Relating To Smoking.

HI HB1693

Relating To Electronic Smoking Devices.

HI HB537

Relating To Electronic Smoking Devices.

HI HB537

Relating To Electronic Smoking Devices.

HI HB826

Relating To Electronic Smoking Devices.

Similar Bills

UT SB0018

Election Fundraising Amendments

HI HB797

Relating To Public Records.

HI SB134

Relating To Emergency Powers.

HI SB2916

Relating To Emergency Powers.

HI HB1075

Relating To Emoluments.

HI SB2331

Relating To Historic Preservation.

HI SB3285

Relating To Emergency Management.

HI HB1585

Relating To Emergency Management.