HI SB700

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 137-2 to require government entities to seek reimbursement for search and rescue expenses from persons who require rescue after leaving a hiking trail to enter a closed area or hiking on a trail closed to the public.

Allows reimbursement from the person rescued, their estate, guardians, custodians, responsible entities, or any entity responsible for placing the person in danger.

Reimbursement is mandatory when the need for search and rescue resulted from a person leaving a marked, closed hiking trail or entering a marked, closed hiking trail without authorization.

Requires the closed area or trail to be marked with a sign giving reasonable notice of the closure.

Effective May 6, 2137.