Hawaii House Bill HCR37

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/25
• Refer: 3/14/25
• Report Pass: 3/27/25
• Refer: 3/27/25
• Report Pass: 4/3/25
• Refer: 4/4/25
• Report Pass: 4/15/25
• Engrossed: 4/16/25
• Passed: 4/16/25

Caption

Requesting The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency To Collaborate With Relevant Agencies To Develop Initiatives And Outreach Programs To Inform Kupuna About Emergency Preparedness.

Impact

The bill recognizes the increasing susceptibility of Hawaii to natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions, making it essential for the elderly to be equipped with the knowledge required to navigate emergencies effectively. As over 19% of Hawaii's population consists of individuals aged sixty-five and older, improving their emergency preparedness is seen as critical not only for their safety but also for lessening the pressure on emergency services during crises.

Summary

HCR37 is a House Concurrent Resolution from the Thirty-third Legislature of Hawaii, requesting the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) to collaborate with relevant agencies to develop initiatives and outreach programs aimed at informing the elderly population, particularly kupuna, about emergency preparedness. Given the vulnerability of older adults during natural disasters, this initiative seeks to enhance their access to essential information and resources that will aid in their survival during such events.

Contention

While the bill appears to have supportive intent aimed at enhancing community safety, potential points of contention may arise regarding the implementation of the programs proposed. Concerns could center around the adequacy of resources allocated for outreach, the effectiveness of the proposed initiatives, and how well these programs can actually reach all segments of the kupuna population, particularly those with limited access to technology or mobility.