Bill > SB1075

This bill amends Hawaii's search and rescue reimbursement law to expand circumstances under which individuals or entities can be held financially responsible for search and rescue expenses. Specifically, a person can be liable for such expenses if they knowingly enter closed state, county, or private property, knowingly enter a closed hiking trail, or violate applicable laws, but only if the closure is clearly marked by a sign, barricade, or another device that provides reasonable notice. The bill requires each county to adopt ordinances and the State Fire Council to adopt administrative rules to implement these new reimbursement provisions. The legislation modifies the existing law by removing language about "intentional disregard for safety" and replacing it with more specific conditions for liability. The bill aims to create a more structured approach to recovering costs associated with search and rescue operations by holding individuals accountable for entering restricted or dangerous areas, while ensuring that proper notice of closures is provided.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1075&year=2026