HI HB558

Appropriates funds to the Department of Land and Natural Resources for four full-time permanent ocean safety officer positions at Maniniowali Beach (Kua Bay) in Kekaha Kai State Park on the island of Hawaii, with the County of Hawaii responsible for hiring and providing benefits.

Appropriates additional funds for fiscal year 2019-2020 to purchase equipment including one lifeguard tower, one all-terrain vehicle, radios, rescue equipment, and protective equipment for the ocean safety officers.

Identifies Kua Bay as one of Hawaii's most popular beaches due to its location and park improvements, noting 28 emergency medical service calls from 2013-2016, with 19 resulting in hospitalizations and 3 fatal drownings since 2013.

Establishes that lifeguards serve as primary emergency responders on shorelines and nearshore waters, providing injury control and ocean rescue dispatch services.

Takes effect on July 1, 2050.