SB 248 Summary

• Changes Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 137-2 to require (rather than allow) government entities to seek reimbursement for search and rescue expenses from the rescued person, their estate, guardians, or entities responsible for placing them in danger.

• Establishes increased penalties for violating rules restricting public access to trails: $500 for first offense, $750 for second offense, and $1,000 for third or subsequent offense across Sections 184-5, 198D-13, and 708-814.7.

• Adds new criminal trespass category under Section 708-814.7 for entering or remaining on state land trails closed to public use with proper warning signs, with the same enhanced penalty structure as other trail access violations.

• Defines "trail" and clarifies that minor improvements such as utility poles, signage, irrigation facilities, fences, and pathways do not constitute "improved state land" for trespass purposes.

• Specifies that fines for trail access violations cannot be suspended or waived, and each day of violation constitutes a separate offense.