Bill > HR179

This 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. Recognizing Hawaii's rising temperatures and high humidity, which increase risks of heat-related illnesses, especially for children, the resolution seeks to develop statewide guidelines that would apply to various outdoor activities like sports practices, recess, and marching band practice. The study is specifically asked to explore using wet-bulb globe temperature (a standard method for measuring heat stress) and, if current practices are deemed insufficient, develop guidelines that include protocols for hydration, staff training on heat illness symptoms, safeguards for students with medical vulnerabilities, student acclimatization recommendations, and measures to protect students during outdoor activities. The Department of Education is requested to assess implementation costs, submit the study findings to the Legislature by late 2026, and potentially develop a comprehensive plan by late 2027, with the ultimate goal of creating safer outdoor environments for students in Hawaii's increasingly warm climate.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=179&year=2025