Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2005

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs, to which was referred H.B. No. 313 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to create a misdemeanor offense of misuse of 911 emergency telephone service when an individual accesses 911 and knowingly causes a false alarm or recklessly makes a false complaint or report.

Testimony in support of this measure was submitted by the Honolulu Police Department.

Your Committee finds that the 911 emergency telephone system functions as an important lifeline for Hawaii's citizens who may require the immediate assistance of medical, fire fighting, and law enforcement personnel. The misuse of the 911 emergency telephone system not only wastes valuable public resources in responding to false emergencies, but also diverts critical police, firefighter, and emergency personnel from legitimate needs. The creation of a misdemeanor offense will deter potential abuse of the 911 emergency telephone system as well as ensure that this system is reserved for individuals who legitimately require immediate assistance.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 313, and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be placed on the calendar for Third Reading.