Bill > SB353

This bill amends Hawaii's emergency management laws to provide greater transparency, accountability, and democratic oversight during states of emergency. It prohibits the Governor or Mayor from suspending access to public records or vital records during an emergency, and introduces a new definition for "severe weather warning" which includes notifications from various public authorities about dangerous conditions like hurricanes, tsunamis, or volcanic activity. The bill clarifies that the Governor and Mayors must be specific when suspending laws during emergencies, explaining which laws are suspended, why they are suspended, and ensuring suspensions are no broader or longer than necessary. Importantly, the legislation allows the State Legislature and county councils to terminate a state of emergency after thirty days by a two-thirds vote, which provides a check on executive emergency powers. The bill was likely prompted by experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the need for clearer legal frameworks governing emergency management. By requiring more justification for law suspensions and providing legislative oversight, the bill aims to balance effective emergency response with democratic principles of transparency and accountability.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=353&year=2026