Relating To Fire Prevention.
The creation of a state fire marshal would empower the position to coordinate fire protection efforts among local agencies, lead fire investigations, and enforce fire prevention regulations. Additionally, the bill grants the state fire marshal the authority to employ seven fire enforcement officers who would have powers analogous to those of county fire chiefs. This enhancement in capacity is particularly critical for preventing and responding to fire risks on state lands, thereby ensuring more effective wildfire management practices in Hawaii.
House Bill 2106 aims to establish the position of a state fire marshal in Hawaii, addressing a significant gap as Hawaii is currently the only state without this critical agency dedicated to fire prevention. The legislation also seeks to organize statewide fire prevention and mitigation efforts, which have previously lacked cohesion and a strategic plan. The need for such an entity has been highlighted by recent wildfires, particularly the devastating ones in Lahaina on August 8, 2023, which underscored the urgency for robust fire management measures in the state.
One notable aspect of HB 2106 is the proposed funding for these new positions, which includes stipulations for appropriate salaries equal to county fire inspectors to assist in recruitment and retention. The bill also indicates that the financial provisions will surpass the state general fund expenditure ceiling for the upcoming fiscal year, prompting the legislature to justify this increase as a necessary public service to enhance fire safety and protection. Debates may arise around the funding allocation and the bill's implications on the state's budget constraints.