Hawaii Senate Bill SB2356

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/24
• Refer: 1/22/24
• Refer: 2/2/24

Caption

Relating To Wildfires.

Impact

The legislation is expected to have a profound impact on Hawaii's wildfire prevention and response efforts. It makes provisions for the hiring of specialized personnel and the acquisition of essential firefighting equipment, including aircraft. The total appropriation outlined in the bill is significant, amounting to approximately $208.4 million, which highlights the state’s recognition of the urgency in strengthening its wildfire management capabilities. By specifically addressing areas that county fire departments are unable to effectively manage, the bill shifts some responsibility to state agencies.

Summary

SB2356 aims to address the growing threat of wildfires in Hawaii by establishing a comprehensive wildfire management framework. The bill proposes the creation of several key positions including the state wildfire marshal and state wildfire chief, as well as the formation of a state wildfire corps specifically trained to combat wildfires in remote and inaccessible terrain. This initiative is seen as necessary due to the state's current lack of resources and preparedness in dealing with wildfires compared to other regions, particularly in western states where firefighting budgets are significantly higher.

Contention

While the intention behind SB2356 is to enhance wildfire management, there may be contentions regarding the funding and resource allocation required to support these initiatives. The substantial budget increase may lead to discussions about prioritizing state expenditures, and some community members may raise concerns about the long-term sustainability of funding such programs. Furthermore, the bill's implementation will require robust coordination between various state and local agencies, which could face challenges in terms of communication and operational effectiveness.