Hawaii Senate Bill SB2098

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/24
• Refer: 1/18/24

Caption

Relating To Education.

Impact

Through this legislation, the Hawaii Department of Education will contract a qualified nonprofit organization to establish an aquatic safety education program specifically for elementary students. Additionally, the bill provides for the establishment of one full-time position to oversee this program. This initiative aims to significantly improve the ability of children to handle water-related emergencies, thereby directly contributing to the reduction of drowning incidents statewide. By integrating aquatic safety into school curriculums, the state aligns itself with best practices recommended by the International Life Saving Federation.

Summary

SB2098 aims to address the urgent issue of drowning as a significant preventable cause of injury and death among children in Hawaii. The bill recognizes that drowning has been a leading cause of injury-related mortality for children between 2014 and 2018. Alarmingly, the majority of fatal drownings involved resident children, highlighting a critical need for enhanced aquatic safety education. The bill seeks to ensure that children, particularly from low- and moderate-income communities, have access to comprehensive aquatic safety instruction integrated into the public school curriculum.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits of SB2098, there may be concerns regarding funding and resource allocation for the program. The bill acknowledges that the appropriations may exceed the general fund expenditure ceiling, indicating financial implications that could lead to debates over budget priorities. Critics may argue about the sustainability of funding for such programs amidst other pressing educational needs. However, proponents are likely to champion the bill as a necessary investment in public health and safety, emphasizing the precedence of preventing drowning incidents over other financial considerations.