Bill > HB2554

This bill establishes a temporary Office of the State Search and Rescue Coordinator within the Office of the Governor to centralize and improve statewide search and rescue operations, addressing the current fragmented system that leads to inefficiencies and delayed responses. The Coordinator will be responsible for reviewing and assessing the state's readiness, coordinating efforts among federal, state, county, and volunteer agencies, identifying and managing available resources, developing plans, investigating grant opportunities, maintaining records of all operations, and coordinating training. The office will also work to increase personnel, implement new technologies, enter into agreements with other entities for resource sharing, and explore ways to reduce risks and costs associated with search and rescue incidents, including engaging with programs for missing children and human trafficking, and potentially recovering costs from insurance companies. This office will operate on a pilot basis until June 30, 2031, and the bill includes an appropriation for its establishment and administration, with an effective date of July 1, 3000.

Budget and Finance, Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=2554&year=2026