Bill > SB3191

This bill establishes a new Department of Water Safety and Drowning Prevention to address the state's high rates of drowning deaths, which impact both residents and the tourism economy. The department will be led by a Director of Water Safety and Drowning Prevention and a Deputy Director, and will be responsible for developing and coordinating statewide water safety strategies, integrating existing programs, streamlining facility use, and attracting investment in aquatics facilities and safety programs. The bill also amends existing statutes to include this new department within the state's governmental structure, sets salaries for its leadership, and includes provisions regarding post-employment restrictions for its director. Finally, it appropriates funds for the establishment of key positions within the new department and sets an effective date of July 1, 2525.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=3191&year=2026