Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SCR56

Introduced
3/10/26  
Refer
3/19/26  
Report Pass
4/7/26  
Engrossed
4/8/26  
Refer
4/10/26  
Refer
4/17/26  
Report Pass
4/20/26  

Caption

Recognizing Open Water Lifeguards As First Responders In Acknowledgement Of Their Essential Role In Emergency Response, Public Safety, And Community Wellbeing Throughout The State.

Impact

By formally designating open water lifeguards as first responders, this resolution aims to ensure that they receive the rights, resources, and respect that come with this recognition. The resolution encourages relevant state and county agencies to adopt this recognition and support lifeguards with the necessary training and resources to enhance their capacity for emergency response. This could lead to improved safety and wellbeing for both lifeguards and the communities they serve.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 56 recognizes open water lifeguards as first responders in the State of Hawaii. This legislation acknowledges the essential role these professionals play in public safety and emergency response, particularly in unique and hazardous environments like beaches and shorelines. The resolution highlights the rigorous training that lifeguards undergo, equipping them to respond not only to aquatic emergencies but also to various incidents on land including medical emergencies and accidents.

Contention

The resolution differentiates open water lifeguards from traditional pool lifeguards, emphasizing the complexities and dangers associated with their roles. There may be varied opinions on this recognition; proponents stress its importance for enhancing emergency response mechanisms, while opponents might argue about the practicality and extent of benefits offered by such designations. Additionally, the call for collaboration among public safety agencies reflects the ongoing discussions about improving emergency response across the state.

Companion Bills

HI SR54

Same As Recognizing Open Water Lifeguards As First Responders In Acknowledgement Of Their Essential Role In Emergency Response, Public Safety, And Community Wellbeing Throughout The State.

Previously Filed As

HI SB998

Relating To The Hawaii First Responders Memorial.

HI HB503

Relating To The Hawaii First Responders Memorial.

HI SCR232

Recognizing September 2nd As Richard "buffalo" Keaulana Day.

HI HB1234

Relating To Water Safety.

HI SCR111

Declaring A Public Health Emergency Relating To Climate Change And Requesting Statewide Coordination To Identify, Plan For, And Create Cross-sector Solutions To Strengthen Hawaii's Public Health Response To The Climate Crisis.

HI SCR197

Recognizing June 21, 2025, As Indigenous People's Day, July 1, 2025, As Canada Day, And September 30, 2025, As Truth And Reconciliation Day, In Acknowledgement Of The Enduring Friendship Between The People Of Canada And Hawaii, The Independent Sovereignty And Self-determination Of The People Of Canada, And A Commitment To Never Again Allow The Sovereign Right Of A People To Self Determination To Be Taken Against Their Will.

HI SCR188

Urging The Honolulu Ocean Safety Department To Implement A Drone Training Program.

HI SCR180

Requesting The Department Of Transportation To Share Information On The Safety And Performance Of Helicopter And Air Tour Operators To Help Residents And Visitors Make Informed Decisions.

HI HR105

Supporting Free And Responsible Scholastic Journalism And Actively Supporting And Honoring The First Amendment Of The United States Constitution In Student Publications.

HI SCR174

Urging The Department Of Land And Natural Resources And Other State Agencies To Work With Committed Community Groups To Co-steward Community Forests Located On Public Lands For The Betterment Of The State's Forests And Communities.

Similar Bills

CA AB1639

California Drowning Prevention and Rescue Act.

NJ SR44

Recognizes open water lifeguards as first responders and emergency services providers.

NJ SR72

Recognizes open water lifeguards as first responders and emergency services providers.

HI SR54

Recognizing Open Water Lifeguards As First Responders In Acknowledgement Of Their Essential Role In Emergency Response, Public Safety, And Community Wellbeing Throughout The State.

NJ A1638

Designates open water lifeguards as first responders and emergency response providers.

HI HCR46

Recognizing Open Water Lifeguards As First Responders In The State Of Hawaii.

HI HR42

Recognizing Open Water Lifeguards As First Responders In The State Of Hawaii.

OH HCR17

Recognize impact of lifeguard shortage; encourage lifeguarding