HI SB655

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 127A-12 to add media access provisions to emergency management powers of the Governor and Mayor.

Permits news media to access emergency areas closed by authorities, provided the designated emergency management authority determines media access is reasonable, safe, and does not hinder response and recovery activities.

Limits media access to authorized representatives of news services, newspapers, radio stations, television stations, and online news distribution networks.

Establishes a pool system when full media access cannot be granted, designating one pool writer, one pool photographer, and one pool videographer selected by media representatives.

Exempts the State and counties from liability for injuries or property damage to media representatives in closed emergency areas and clarifies government agencies are not responsible for providing logistical support, equipment, or copying services to media.