Hawaii House Bill HCR121

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• 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: 5/2/25

Caption

Requesting The United States Department Of Defense, United States Army, United States Navy, And State Department Of Transportation To Work With Appropriate State And County Departments And Agencies To Expand, Plan, And Coordinate Work Related To Using Kolekole Pass As An Expanded Emergency Exit Route.

Impact

The bill has the potential to significantly enhance disaster preparedness in Hawaii by formalizing plans for Kolekole Pass as a reliable alternate evacuation route. With limited road access primarily via Farrington Highway for many residents, the establishment of this route could reduce gridlocks during emergencies, potentially saving lives. Further, it aligns with the need for improved infrastructure in areas prone to natural disasters, as evidenced by the recent Maui fires that underscored this vulnerability.

Summary

HCR121 is a resolution requesting several federal and state agencies, including the United States Department of Defense, Army, Navy, and the State Department of Transportation, to collaborate on expanding, planning, and coordinating the use of Kolekole Pass as an emergency evacuation route. This route, located in the Waiʻanae mountain range and historically significant for military operations, is being considered in light of recent natural disasters that have highlighted the need for additional evacuation routes for vulnerable communities on the West side of Oahu. The resolution emphasizes the importance of coordinated efforts between federal, state, and local entities to ensure the passage's preparedness for public emergency use.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR121 appears to be cautiously optimistic. Proponents argue that the resolution is a necessary step towards ensuring public safety through improved emergency response capabilities. Discussions among military and civilian leadership suggest a collaborative spirit and willingness to adapt existing resources for civilian use in emergencies. However, some stakeholders may express concerns over the feasibility and timeliness of implementing such infrastructure changes, warranting further dialogue.

Contention

While the resolution does not seem to have any overt points of contention in the recorded discussions, underlying challenges may arise concerning the coordination among various federal and state agencies. The need for effective planning, maintenance, and protocol establishment for civilian use of Kolekole Pass are critical elements that could lead to differing opinions on implementation strategies. Additionally, potential bureaucratic hurdles might be a point of contention as stakeholders work to ensure quick and effective action in transforming the Pass into an emergency exit.