Bill > HB2236

This bill clarifies state and local authority during emergencies by adding a definition for "severe weather warning," which refers to public notifications from authorities like the National Weather Service about dangerous conditions such as coastal inundation, high surf, flash flooding, volcanic activity, tsunamis, or hurricanes. It also amends existing laws to prevent governors or mayors from suspending deadlines for public records requests or vital records during a declared emergency, though reasonable delays of up to six months are permitted. Furthermore, the bill grants the Legislature the power to terminate a state of emergency declared by the governor, and city councils the power to terminate local states of emergency declared by mayors, with specific conditions and justifications required for any suspension of laws during an emergency, ensuring these suspensions are no broader or longer than necessary and are tied to specific emergency functions and public welfare justifications.

Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=2236&year=2026