Bill > SB2157

This bill establishes a Search and Rescue Special Fund, administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources, to cover search and rescue expenses, training, equipment, and educational initiatives, funded by legislative appropriations, collected fines, and private donations. It requires government entities to seek reimbursement for at least half of search and rescue costs from individuals who knowingly enter closed state, county, or private property or hiking trails, or who violate applicable laws, provided closures are clearly posted, and also mandates an administrative appeal hearing for individuals to contest these reimbursement assessments before any collection efforts begin. Furthermore, the bill raises the penalty for criminal trespass onto public parks and recreational grounds from a petty misdemeanor to a misdemeanor under certain circumstances involving intentional, repeat, or demonstrably reckless conduct, and imposes a fine on those convicted of this offense, while also appropriating funds for the new special fund and its purposes.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2157&year=2026