STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1889-24

Honolulu, Hawaii

, 2024

RE: S.C.R. No. 181

S.D. 1

Honorable Scott K. Saiki

Speaker, House of Representatives

Thirty-Second State Legislature

Regular Session of 2024

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Water & Land, to which was referred S.C.R. No. 181, S.D. 1, entitled:

"SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A STATEWIDE FIREFIGHTING AIRCRAFT PROGRAM,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to request the establishment of a statewide firefighting aircraft program.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources and Hawaiian Electric.

Your Committee finds that because of its geographic isolation and unique topography, the State faces significant barriers to effective wildfire response. Your Committee further finds that each county's current aerial firefighting resources, such as helicopters and drones, are effective firefighting tools but are difficult to deploy outside of the county during times of mass emergencies. Your Committee believes that a statewide firefighting aircraft program would significantly increase the State's firefighting capabilities and enhance fire safety throughout the State.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Water & Land that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of S.C.R. No. 181, S.D. 1, and recommends that it be referred to your Committee on Finance.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Water & Land,

____________________________

LINDA ICHIYAMA, Chair