Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Conduct A Feasibility Study To Assess Reasonable Accommodations For Beach Access For Persons With Disabilities.
If adopted, SCR218 would mandate a detailed examination of various parameters that influence beach access for people with disabilities. Factors to be analyzed include the physical characteristics of each beach transit corridor, the administrative support from the relevant counties, and the specific accommodations necessary to comply with federal and state regulations regarding accessibility. This study is essential not only for addressing existing gaps but also for promoting inclusive access to Hawaii's natural resources, aligning with the state’s reputation for welcoming visitors.
Senate Concurrent Resolution 218 (SCR218) is a resolution initiated by the Senate during the Thirty-second Legislature of Hawaii in 2024. The resolution calls for the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to conduct a feasibility study focused on assessing reasonable accommodations for beach access specifically for persons with disabilities, including veterans. The goal is to evaluate how best to ensure that individuals with disabilities have adequate access to beaches, particularly those equipped with public restrooms within designated ocean recreation management areas. It acknowledges that while some beaches have wheelchair-accessible options, availability is limited across the state.
SCR218 represents a significant step towards inclusivity in public space access in Hawaii, reinforcing the state's commitment to serving all residents and visitors equitably. By focusing on the needs of individuals with disabilities, the resolution aligns with broader efforts to enhance public policy that emphasizes accessibility, reflecting a growing trend in legislative approaches across the nation.
The resolution's passage indicates a growing recognition of the need to improve accessibility at public beaches, which has been a point of concern among advocates for the disabled community. However, any oppositional viewpoints or concerns raised during discussions have not been documented in the current records, suggesting general support for enhancing disability accommodation at beaches. The feasibility study is set to report its findings prior to the 2025 legislative session, which adds an urgency to address these accessibility issues.