Hawaii House Bill HB827

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/30/23

Caption

Relating To Emergency Preparedness.

Impact

The bill specifically amends Chapter 302A of the Hawaii Revised Statutes by establishing a framework for emergency management within school districts. The outlined communication strategy aims to cover various types of natural emergencies including hurricanes, floods, and volcanic eruptions. It emphasizes the need to keep parents and guardians informed about protocols and school closure procedures in the event of emergencies, thereby promoting better preparedness and community resilience.

Summary

House Bill 827 addresses the increasing threat of natural emergencies affecting school communities in Hawaii. This bill mandates the Department of Education to develop and maintain a comprehensive communication strategy and outreach plan to enhance emergency management and disaster preparedness in schools. The legislation arises from concerns about the potential intensification of natural disasters due to climate change, particularly following recent volcanic activity from Mauna Loa, which raised awareness of the immediate dangers faced by communities in Hawaii.

Contention

One notable concern regarding the implementation of HB 827 is the potential for disparities in the effectiveness of emergency communication across different school complexes. Critics may argue that a one-size-fits-all approach could overlook unique local risks and needs, thereby challenging the adequacy of the proposed measures. Additionally, the responsibility placed on the Department of Education to disseminate timely updates post the commencement of each school year raises discussions on the adequacy of current resources and logistics to support such initiatives.