Bill > HR39

This resolution requests the Hawaii Department of Education to make public school recreational facilities, such as pools, gyms, and fields, available to the public during times when they are not being used for school activities. The resolution is motivated by data showing that 29% of U.S. residents lack walkable access to recreational amenities, and 87% of people want local governments to ensure equitable access to parks and recreation facilities. The resolution specifically highlights that in Hawaii, access to recreational facilities directly reflects income inequality, with rural and low-income communities facing the greatest barriers to physical activity. While current administrative rules already allow public use of school facilities as long as it does not interfere with school operations, this resolution seeks to expand and encourage broader, unrestricted public access during non-peak hours and non-school days. The Department of Education is requested to implement this expanded access, and the resolution calls for a certified copy to be sent to the Superintendent of Education to facilitate implementation.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=39&year=2025