Hawaii House Bill HB679

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Report Pass: 2/15/23
• Report Pass: 3/3/23
• Refer: 2/15/23
• Engrossed: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/10/23
• Report Pass: 3/20/23
• Report Pass: 4/2/24
• Refer: 3/20/23

Caption

Relating To State Funds.

Impact

The bill outlines significant changes to existing state funding mechanisms and appropriations, including redirecting funds originally intended for other purposes to assist wildfire victims. It asserts that the general fund expenditure ceiling for fiscal year 2023-2024 will be exceeded by the proposed appropriations. Additionally, it includes the establishment of the One Ohana Bank Trust Account to facilitate compensation for victims or their representatives, which reflects a shift in the state's responsibilities toward disaster recovery.

Summary

House Bill 679 addresses the urgent need for emergency funding and response measures due to the devastating wildfires that struck Maui on August 8, 2023. The bill proposes appropriating $297,000,000 from the state general revenues to cover expenditures related to noncongregate housing, food, and other forms of assistance necessary for individuals affected by the wildfires. This funding is vital to support immediate recovery efforts for those displaced and impacted by the natural disaster, which has been characterized as one of the worst in Hawaii's history.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB 679 appears largely supportive, particularly from those advocating for immediate assistance to the wildfire victims. Legislators have expressed the necessity of providing swift and compassionate support to those affected. However, there are concerns regarding the long-term implications of exceeding the general fund expenditure ceiling and the state's ability to maintain fiscal responsibility while addressing urgent recovery needs.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise concerning the alternative compensation mechanism established by the One Ohana Bank Trust. This approach requires individuals who accept compensation to waive their right to pursue tort litigation. Critics of this provision argue that it may limit the legal rights of affected individuals in favor of a streamlined compensation process. Furthermore, questions have been raised about the funding allocation process, including the transparency and efficiency of how these public funds will be managed and utilized in response to the wildfire disaster.