HI SCR95

Governor is requested to convene a working group to develop recommendations for effective communications with limited English proficient persons and persons with disabilities before, during, and after emergencies and natural disasters.

Working group is tasked with developing a plan for accurate, culturally appropriate, and timely communication services; assessing current communication access status; identifying information technology resources and costs; and proposing legislative solutions.

Working group composition includes 22 members: one Governor-appointed co-chair, two representatives from the Hawai'i Coalition for Immigrant Rights (one as co-chair), heads of various state agencies, county emergency management officials, and representatives from disability and immigrant advocacy organizations.

Working group must submit findings and recommendations, including proposed legislation, to the Legislature no later than October 31, 2021.

Certified copies of the resolution must be transmitted to the Governor, Attorney General, and all relevant state and county agencies and organizations.