Bill > HB673

This bill amends Hawaii's emergency management laws to enhance transparency, accountability, and democratic oversight during states of emergency. Specifically, the bill prohibits the Governor or mayors from suspending public records requests or vital records requests during emergencies, ensuring that government remains accessible even in crisis situations. It adds a new definition for "severe warning" to include various types of hazardous conditions like tsunamis, hurricanes, and volcanic activity. The bill also introduces significant changes to emergency powers by requiring that any suspension of laws during an emergency be narrowly tailored, time-limited, and justified based on protecting public health and safety. Most notably, the bill grants the state Legislature and county councils the power to terminate a state of emergency through a two-thirds vote, which previously was solely at the discretion of the Governor or mayor. The legislation was inspired by challenges encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic and aims to create a more clear and balanced legal framework for emergency management that maintains democratic principles while allowing for effective response to crises.

Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=673&year=2025