THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	2771
THIRTY-SECOND LEGISLATURE, 2024
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

relating to emergency management.

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

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that on August 8, 2023, wildfires devastated the town of Lahaina, Maui killing at least one hundred fifteen people and leaving thousands homeless. While mass-notification alerts and warnings were broadcasted and texted to the public warning of the wildfires, the outdoor emergency sirens were not activated. Emergency sirens can be used for a variety of emergencies, including hurricanes, fires, flooding, and lava. In the aftermath of the Lahaina wildfires, questions arose as to the efficacy of the outdoor emergency siren system in warning individuals specifically about wildfires. The legislature further finds that there is a need to review the State's outdoor emergency siren system to ensure that the public receives ample notification about the specific type of threat or warning being conveyed. Allowing the outdoor emergency siren system to broadcast different sounds for specific emergencies may improve public safety and allow for use of sirens in all types of emergencies.

Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to require the Hawaii emergency management agency to conduct a study researching the effectiveness of using distinct sounds or tones emitted by outdoor warning sirens to warn the public of different types of emergencies and whether evacuation is necessary.

SECTION 2. (a) The Hawaii emergency management agency, in collaboration with the county emergency management agencies, shall conduct a study researching the effectiveness of using distinct sounds or tones emitted by outdoor warning sirens to:

(1) Warn the public of different types of emergencies, such as tsunamis or fires; and

(2) Indicate if evacuation is necessary.

(b) The Hawaii emergency management agency shall submit a report of its findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2025.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

INTRODUCED BY:

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Report Title:

HiEMA; Fires; Distinct Sounds; Report to Legislature

Description:

Requires the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, in collaboration with the county emergency management agencies, to conduct a study researching the effectiveness of using distinct sounds or tones emitted by outdoor warning sirens to warn the public of different types of emergencies and indicate whether evacuation is necessary. Requires a report to the Legislature before the 2025 Regular Session.

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