HI HR32

Requests the State to include contracted organizations in its first responder network to provide food, beverages, and ice to residents during natural disasters.

Directs the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency to develop a list of organizations willing to contract with the State to immediately provide disaster relief supplies.

Requires the Agency to submit the list of organizations along with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2019 Regular Session.

Recognizes that traditional first responders (paramedics, EMTs, police, firefighters) are not equipped to distribute large quantities of food, water, and supplies to affected residents.

References the Hawaii State Department of Defense recommendation that residents maintain emergency preparedness kits with at least fourteen days of supplies, including one gallon of water per person per day.