Bill > HB1269

This bill establishes the Accessible Wilderness and State Parks Trails Program within Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources to enhance outdoor recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The program will develop and maintain accessible trails, provide adaptive equipment like specialized wheelchairs, and promote equitable access to natural resources. The department will be responsible for identifying trails needing accessibility upgrades, procuring and maintaining adaptive equipment, collaborating with stakeholder groups, and securing funding through legislative appropriations, federal grants, and public-private partnerships. A new special fund will be created to support the program, which can receive legislative appropriations, gifts, donations, and grants. The department must submit annual reports to the legislature detailing program activities, expenditures, and future plans. The program will ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and state accessibility standards, and the department may adopt rules for equipment use, trail reservations, and facility standards. The bill is inspired by successful accessibility programs in states like Colorado and California, aiming to ensure that individuals with disabilities can fully experience Hawaii's natural landscapes. The program will take effect on July 1, 2025, with initial funding appropriated for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1269&year=2026