Bill > SCR114

This concurrent resolution requests the Department of Education, in collaboration with the Department of Health and State Public Charter School Commission, to conduct a comprehensive study on managing heat exposure in public and charter schools to protect students' health during outdoor activities. The resolution stems from Hawaii's rising temperatures and increasing humidity, which pose significant risks for heat-related illnesses, particularly for children who are more vulnerable to heat stress. The study is specifically requested to examine the feasibility of using wet-bulb globe temperature (a scientifically recognized method for measuring heat stress) and develop guidelines if current practices are deemed insufficient. If such guidelines are developed, they would need to apply statewide to various outdoor activities, include protocols for hydration, staff training on heat illness symptoms, provisions for students with medical conditions, acclimatization recommendations, and an assessment of implementation costs. The Department of Education is requested to submit the study to the Legislature by twenty days before the 2026 Regular Session and, if a plan is developed, submit the plan by twenty days before the 2027 Regular Session, with the ultimate goal of creating safer outdoor environments for students in Hawaii's increasingly hot climate.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SCR&billnumber=114&year=2025