Bill > SB2937

This bill establishes a Search and Rescue Card Program and a Search and Rescue Special Fund to help reimburse state and county agencies and volunteer organizations for the costs associated with search and rescue operations. The program aims to support preparedness, training, equipment, and response efforts, with funds collected from the sale of search and rescue cards going into the special fund to cover these expenses. Importantly, possessing a search and rescue card does not exempt individuals from liability for reimbursement costs. The bill also revises existing procedures for seeking reimbursement for search and rescue operations, specifying that reimbursement is only allowed if it's determined that a person knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly engaged in conduct that foreseeably and substantially contributed to the need for rescue, and not for simple misjudgments, unavoidable circumstances, or medical emergencies where reasonable care was exercised. The bill defines key terms like "intentionally," "knowingly," and "recklessly" in the context of actions leading to a search and rescue situation, and clarifies that the burden of proof for reimbursement lies with the state or county, requiring a preponderance of evidence. It also explicitly states that this legislation is not intended to discourage people from seeking emergency assistance or to delay requests for help.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2937&year=2026