Hawaii Senate Bill SR138

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Report Pass: 5/2/23
• Passed: 5/4/23

Caption

Urging The United States Marine Corps To Relocate All Live Fire Training And Aviation Activity Away From Puuloa Range Training Facility.

Impact

The resolution seeks to mitigate various impacts outlined by community members, including environmental contamination and potential health issues related to ongoing military activities. Environmental studies have indicated lead contamination significantly exceeding legal limits around the facility, raising alarms about the health implications for those living nearby. Community members have also expressed feelings of vulnerability concerning potential accidents due to the nature of military training conducted in proximity to schools, homes, and public spaces.

Summary

Senate Resolution 138 (SR138) urges the United States Marine Corps to relocate all live fire training and aviation activities away from the Puuloa Range Training Facility in Hawaii. This resolution addresses longstanding community concerns regarding the facility's operations, which have led to increased noise pollution and health risks for nearby residents. The Puuloa Range has been operational since the early 20th century, but the re-establishment of sniper training activities in 2011 and recent announcements about night landing zones for helicopters have drawn increased scrutiny from residents, particularly following a series of noise complaints and incidents involving potential stray bullets.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR138 appears largely supportive among area residents and local lawmakers, expressing a need for remediation and the prioritization of community safety over military operations. Advocates for the resolution emphasize the detrimental effects that noise pollution and environmental hazards can have on families, particularly in light of planned housing developments for native Hawaiians nearby. However, some may argue about the necessity for military readiness and operations, positioning the resolution within a broader conversation about balancing military needs with community rights and environmental stewardship.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the adequacy of current military proposals to move some ranges inland as an alternative solution, which community members feel does not sufficiently address their concerns regarding noise and safety. Additionally, the resolution seeks to emphasize that relocation should not only focus on mitigating harmful impacts but also on ensuring the voices of local residents are heard in decisions affecting their environment. The resolution’s push to compel action from the Marine Corps may set a precedent for future military-community relations, particularly in regions where military installations and civilian populations coexist.