Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SB1374

Introduced

1/23/25

Refer

1/27/25

Caption

Making An Emergency Appropriation To The Public Utilities Commission.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts the operations of the Public Utilities Commission by allowing for immediate financial support to employ experts who can assist in the evaluation and reconstruction of utility infrastructure in the wake of natural disasters. This funding is intended to strengthen the state's electric grid, thereby protecting utility customers and enhancing the overall security of electric services in Hawaii. By equipping the PUC with the necessary resources, the bill promotes proactive measures to address and mitigate risks associated with climate-related disasters, which are increasingly relevant as environmental challenges escalate.

Summary

Senate Bill 1374 aims to address the aftermath of the devastating wildfires in Maui that occurred on August 8, 2023. Recognizing this disaster as one of the worst in Hawaii's history, the bill proposes an emergency appropriation of $700,000 from the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) special fund. This funding will enable the PUC to procure specialized consultant services aimed at enhancing the resilience and reliability of electric utility services within the state. The consultants will provide technical assessments and recommendations critical to mitigating future storm-related power outages and ensuring robust recovery from extreme weather events.

Contention

While the bill appears to have broad support, especially given its urgency related to disaster recovery, there may be controversy surrounding the specifics of the funding and the selection process for the consultant services. Concerns may arise regarding how the funds are allocated, the effectiveness of the consultants chosen, and whether this emergency appropriation sets a precedent for future funding requests. Additionally, members of the legislature may debate priorities in disaster preparedness and recovery, especially in light of competing financial needs across different domains affected by recent calamities.

Companion Bills

HI SB1374

Carry Over Making An Emergency Appropriation To The Public Utilities Commission.

Previously Filed As

HI SB1374

Making An Emergency Appropriation To The Public Utilities Commission.

HI HB1055

Making An Emergency Appropriation To The Public Utilities Commission.

HI SB1345

Making Emergency Appropriations For Public Employment Cost Items.

HI HB1026

Making Emergency Appropriations For Public Employment Cost Items.

HI SB1486

Making An Emergency Appropriation To The Department Of Transportation.

HI HB1167

Making An Emergency Appropriation To The Department Of Transportation.

HI SB1364

Making Emergency Appropriations For Law Enforcement Personnel Costs.

HI HB1439

Making Appropriations For Public Employment Cost Items.

HI SB1418

Making An Emergency Appropriation To The Department Of Human Services.

HI HB1045

Making Emergency Appropriations For Law Enforcement Personnel Costs.

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MD SB282

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MD HB350

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MD SB319

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