HB1214.DOC

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.B. NO.	1214
TWENTY-FIFTH LEGISLATURE, 2009
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

SECTION 1. Homeland security depends not only upon defense from enemy attack, but also upon the ability to deal with the effects of such an attack. Additionally, the ability to recover from natural disasters provides additional protection in times when parts of our nation may be most vulnerable.

In times of natural disasters and other crises, the American Red Cross, Hawaii State Chapter, provides crucial response and support to the people of Hawaii. Indeed, the Red Cross has become nearly synonymous with recovery efforts, both locally and around the world.

However, this important organization would be handicapped in an emergency if its own facilities were unable to operate, particularly its headquarters and neighbor island offices. Although the chapter's statewide headquarters building was recently finished, it is still in need of mitigation measures which will protect it from hurricane damage. Additionally, all of the chapter's offices require backup generators in the event of power failure.

The purpose of this Act is to make an appropriation from homeland security funds for:

(1) Hurricane and flood abatement measures; and

(2) Emergency backup generators,

to ensure continuity of operations.

SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the homeland security funds allotted to the State of Hawaii as a grant pursuant to chapter 42F, Hawaii Revised Statutes, the sum of $390,000 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2009-2010 for the American Red Cross, Hawaii State Chapter, for hurricane screens, window laminate, retaining wall and concrete lanai construction for its headquarters, and emergency generators for its headquarters and neighbor island offices.

The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of defense for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2009.

INTRODUCED BY:	_____________________________