Hawaii House Bill HR115

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/13/24
• Report Pass: 3/27/24
• Report Pass: 4/4/24
• Refer: 3/27/24
• Passed: 4/4/24

Caption

Directing The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency To Submit A Grant Request To The Federal Emergency Management Agency For Rockfall Mitigation In Moanalua Gardens And Moanalua Valley, Oahu.

Impact

If passed, this resolution will empower the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency to pursue federal funding aimed at rockfall mitigation projects. These projects are essential not only for protecting the immediate communities but also for preventing wider-reaching impacts that could arise from such natural hazards. The resolution highlights previous efforts by the United States Army Corps of Engineers in conducting similar mitigation projects, underscoring a collaborative approach to addressing these environmental concerns.

Summary

House Resolution 115 (HR115) directs the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency to submit a grant request to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the purpose of mitigating rockfall hazards in the Moanalua Gardens and Moanalua Valley areas in Oahu. The resolution identifies these communities as being at high risk for landslide and rockfall incidents due to boulders along nearby hillsides. HR115 emphasizes the necessity of proactive measures to safeguard vulnerable hillside and valley communities from potential disaster.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR115 is generally supportive, acknowledging the importance of addressing natural hazards that could threaten community safety. The resolution is framed as a responsible and necessary step towards enhancing public safety and environmental resilience. Stakeholders involved in emergency management and community safety are likely to view this proactive action favorably, as it aims to mitigate risks before they manifest into costly disasters.

Contention

There may be points of contention around HR115 regarding the allocation of federal resources and potential bureaucratic hurdles in the grant application process. Opponents might argue about the efficacy of federal aid and whether it will effectively address the specific needs of the Moanalua and Moanalua Valley areas. Furthermore, discussions may arise about the prioritization of funding for such mitigation projects compared to other community needs, which could lead to debates about the best use of state and federal resources over time.