Bill > SB1374

This bill makes an emergency appropriation of $700,000 from the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) Special Fund to help the PUC address critical infrastructure challenges in the wake of the August 8, 2023 Maui wildfires, which were the worst natural disaster in Hawaii's history. The funding will allow the PUC to hire specialized consultants with technical expertise to assess and develop strategies for improving electric utility services, including mitigating storm-related power outages, restoring the electrical grid, rebuilding Maui's infrastructure, and preparing for future natural disasters. The bill recognizes the PUC's crucial role in strengthening critical infrastructure, protecting utility customers, and ensuring robust recovery following extreme weather events. The appropriated funds will be used to contract consultant services specifically for utility-related dockets during the 2024-2025 fiscal year, and the bill will take effect immediately upon approval by the governor.

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https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1374&year=2026