SB 2157 Hawaii Senate · 2026 Regular Session

RELATING TO SEARCH AND RESCUE.

Summary
Establishes the Search and Rescue Special Fund. Requires government entities to seek reimbursement for all or a portion of search or rescue expenses when the person or entity knowingly enters state, county, or private property, knowingly enters a hiking trail that is closed to the public, or violates applicable laws, provided that the closure is posted by sign, barricade, or other device that gives reasonable notice of the closure. Requires an administrative appeal hearing for an individual subject to cost reimbursement to contest the assessment. Requires counties and the State Fire Council to adopt ordinances or rules as necessary to pursue reimbursements. Raises the penalty for criminal trespass from a petty misdemeanor to a misdemeanor under certain circumstances. Imposes a fine on a person convicted of criminal trespass onto public parks and recreational grounds. Appropriates funds.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 14, 2026 Last action Jan 22, 2026
Floor votes

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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
3
Key actions
0
Committee
1
Jan 22, 2026
Committee
Referred to WLA/PSM/EIG, WAM/JDC.
upper
Jan 21, 2026
Introduced
Introduced and passed First Reading.
upper
Jan 14, 2026
Introduced
Pending Introduction.
upper
8 primary · 2 co-sponsors

Sponsors