Hawaii Senate Bill SCR181

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22
• Report Pass: 4/1/22
• Engrossed: 4/4/22
• Refer: 4/4/22
• Report Pass: 4/19/22
• Refer: 4/19/22

Caption

Requests The County Of Hawaii To Conduct A Feasibility Study On The Creation Of A Marshallese Community Center In Hawaiian Ocean View Estates.

Impact

The proposed community center aims to provide a safe and inclusive environment where members of the Marshallese community can engage in cultural activities, receive social support, and access public information and assistance. The resolution emphasizes the importance of enhancing community solidarity while addressing the unique needs of the Marshallese population in Hawaii. If the feasibility study results in a recommendation, it could have significant implications for how local governments address the needs of immigrant communities.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution SCR181 requests the County of Hawaii to conduct a feasibility study for establishing a Marshallese community center in Hawaiian Ocean View Estates. This proposal is in response to challenges faced by the Marshallese diaspora in Hawaii, which numbers over seven thousand, with a significant population residing in the Hawaiian Ocean View Estates area. The bill aims to address social issues stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and other inequities in access to resources such as healthcare, water, and electricity within this community.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SCR181 appears to be positive, as it seeks to improve the living conditions and wellbeing of the Marshallese community. Supporters likely see this as a proactive step to acknowledge the struggles and contributions of the Marshallese people in Hawaii. There is a shared understanding that such a center could play an essential role in mitigating the social and health disparities faced by this population, especially in light of past challenges exacerbated by the pandemic.

Contention

While there are no explicit points of contention highlighted in the resolution, some challenges might arise during the implementation phase, particularly in assessing the feasibility and securing necessary funding or legislative support. Engagement with local community leaders and consideration of their insights will be crucial in shaping the direction of the proposed community center.