Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HCR150

Introduced
3/16/26  
Refer
3/18/26  
Report Pass
4/2/26  

Caption

Requesting The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency To Identify And Assess Emergency Shelters Capable Of Withstanding Hurricane Conditions And To Develop A Plan To Improve The State's Hurricane Shelter Capacity.

Impact

The resolution outlines a comprehensive approach for HIEMA to evaluate existing emergency shelters, which include public facilities such as schools and community centers. This evaluation aims to ascertain whether these shelters can withstand at least Category 1 hurricane-force winds. By compiling a publicly accessible inventory of shelters along with their resilience capabilities, residents would be better prepared to make informed decisions during emergency evacuations. Furthermore, the proposal highlights potential upgrades or retrofits to ensure adequate protection for communities in the face of worsening climatic conditions.

Summary

HCR150 is a concurrent resolution from the Hawaii House of Representatives, introduced in the thirty-third legislature in 2026. The resolution calls for the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA) to identify and assess emergency shelters that are capable of withstanding hurricane conditions. Recognizing Hawaii's vulnerability to hurricanes, especially in light of increasing storm intensities due to climate change, this resolution seeks to improve overall disaster preparedness and community safety. It underscores the critical need to ensure shelters can protect residents during emergencies, as many current structures may not meet necessary safety standards against severe weather events.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding HCR150 likely reflect a proactive and preventative sentiment among lawmakers and constituents alike. Supporters of HCR150 would view the measure as an essential step toward enhancing public safety and mitigating risks associated with hurricanes. The emphasis on shelter assessment and improvement resonates with heightened awareness of the threats posed by extreme weather patterns, indicating a collective intent to safeguard vulnerable populations and infrastructure throughout the state.

Contention

While HCR150 promotes necessary actions, it may also surface discussions regarding resource allocation for emergency management. Concerns could arise about the availability of funding needed for the proposed shelter assessments and enhancements, alongside debates on which facilities should be prioritized. The success of this initiative will depend on the state’s commitment to addressing these logistical challenges while navigating the complexities of disaster response and improvement in the context of climate resilience.

Companion Bills

HI HR142

Same As Requesting The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency To Identify And Assess Emergency Shelters Capable Of Withstanding Hurricane Conditions And To Develop A Plan To Improve The State's Hurricane Shelter Capacity.

Previously Filed As

HI HB357

Relating To Hurricane Shelters.

HI SB679

Relating To Hurricane Shelters.

HI HCR164

Urging The City And County Of Honolulu, County Of Maui, County Of Hawaii, And County Of Kauai To Create And Maintain A Comprehensive List Of Hurricane Refuges And Shelters Electronically Accessible To The Public.

HI HR159

Urging The City And County Of Honolulu, County Of Maui, County Of Hawaii, And County Of Kauai To Create And Maintain A Comprehensive List Of Hurricane Refuges And Shelters Electronically Accessible To The Public.

HI SCR107

Requesting Each Branch Of The United States Military In The State To Provide Shelters That Can Withstand Hurricanes With Winds Of Over Two Hundred Miles-per-hour For All Of Their Active And Retired Personnel And Families Living In The State.

HI SR88

Requesting Each Branch Of The United States Military In The State To Provide Shelters That Can Withstand Hurricanes With Winds Of Over Two Hundred Miles-per-hour For All Of Their Active And Retired Personnel And Families Living In The State.

HI HCR37

Requesting The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency To Collaborate With Relevant Agencies To Develop Initiatives And Outreach Programs To Inform Kupuna About Emergency Preparedness.

HI SCR22

Requesting The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency To Collaborate With Relevant Agencies To Develop Initiatives And Outreach Programs To Inform Kupuna About Emergency Preparedness.

HI SB1167

Relating To The Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund.

HI HB659

Relating To Hurricane Resistant Criteria.

Similar Bills

HI SB2883

Relating To Building Codes.

HI HR142

Requesting The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency To Identify And Assess Emergency Shelters Capable Of Withstanding Hurricane Conditions And To Develop A Plan To Improve The State's Hurricane Shelter Capacity.

HI HB356

Relating To The State Building Codes.

HI SB698

Relating To The State Building Codes.

HI SB698

Relating To The State Building Codes.

HI HB356

Relating To The State Building Codes.

HI HB357

Relating To Hurricane Shelters.

HI SB679

Relating To Hurricane Shelters.