Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2001

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Transportation, Military Affairs and Government Operations, to which was referred S.B. No. 1524 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to prohibit a person from forcefully obstructing government operation of a radio, telephone, television, or other telecommunication system of the State or a county.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Honolulu Police Department and Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney.

In the course of providing for the public health, safety, and welfare, state and county governments own and operate electronic communications equipment that enables emergency fire, ambulance, and police response. Interference with such communication by threats, violence, force, or physical interference or obstacle can lead to disastrous consequences. This measure penalizes that conduct as a deterrent.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Transportation, Military Affairs and Government Operations that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 1524 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to the Committee on Judiciary.