Hawaii Senate Bill SB255

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/23/23

Caption

Relating To Disaster Preparedness.

Impact

The bill requires the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency to compile a list of public highways that qualify as evacuation routes and prohibits the planting of large trees within a specified distance from these routes. This initiative aims to minimize potential blockages that could hinder evacuation efforts during emergencies. The agency is also tasked with creating a registry of existing large trees that could pose a threat to these routes, thus emphasizing proactive safety measures.

Summary

SB255 is a legislative measure aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness in Hawaii by ensuring that evacuation routes remain clear of obstructions, particularly from large trees. The bill acknowledges the unique vulnerabilities of Hawaii to natural disasters, such as tsunamis and earthquakes, emphasizing the importance of timely evacuation. Given the state's geological conditions, the bill stipulates measures that the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency must take to identify and manage evacuation routes effectively.

Contention

While the bill focuses on improving public safety by preventing obstructions along critical evacuation routes, it may face scrutiny from environmental advocates concerned about the implications of tree removal. The categorization of what constitutes a 'large tree' and the authority given to the agency to remove or trim trees could raise questions regarding local land use and property rights. Nonetheless, the overarching goal is to protect lives during emergencies, potentially leading to debates about balancing safety with environmental considerations.