THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	2145
THIRTY-SECOND LEGISLATURE, 2024		S.D. 1
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO FIRE CODE.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that the Lahaina fires of August 2023, identified as the worst natural disaster in Hawaii's history, caused significant loss of life, property damage, and environmental harm, underscoring the necessity for comprehensive and proactive measures at both the state and county level to address the threat of wildfires. The legislature also finds that the State is committed to fostering resilient and fire-safe communities and recognizes that effective county-planning is integral in preventing catastrophic wildfires in the future.

The legislature further finds that there is an inherent responsibility of each county to enforce fire codes and implement mitigation planning strategies to reduce the likelihood and impact of wildfires. The legislature also finds that it is essential to establish a framework for enhanced collaboration and accountability between the State and its counties to ensure that county zoning and development plans prioritize fire safety.

The purpose of this Act is to require each county to submit an annual report to the legislature that includes fire code enforcement updates and fire mitigation planning.

SECTION 2. Chapter 132, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"§132-   Counties; annual reports. (a) Each county in the State shall submit a detailed report to the legislature no later than thirty days before the convening of each regular session. The report shall outline the counties fire code enforcement efforts and the status of its fire mitigation plan.

(b) The report shall include but not be limited to:

(1) An assessment of current fire safety measures;

(2) Identification of high-risk areas; and

(3) Proposed strategies to enhance fire prevention, preparedness, and response capabilities.

(c) The division of forestry and wildlife of the department of land and natural resources, in collaboration with the state fire council and relevant county authorities, shall develop guidelines to assist counties in strengthening their zoning and development plans to address wildfire prevention and mitigation.

(d) The legislature shall review the submitted reports and, if necessary, consider additional legislation or funding to address identified gaps in fire safety planning and enforcement."

SECTION 3. New statutory material is underscored.

SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect on January 1, 2042.

Report Title:

Fire Code; Fire Enforcement; Reports

Description:

Requires the counties to submit annual reports on fire code enforcement updates and fire mitigation planning to the Legislature. Takes effect 1/1/2042. (SD1)

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.