H.B. 522 Summary

• Removes the governor's and mayor's authority to suspend electronic media transmission during a state of emergency by deleting that provision from Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 127A-13.

• Legislature finds that the power to suspend electronic media transmission is overly broad and vague, potentially restricting lawful free speech and publication in violation of the First Amendment.

• Retains all other emergency powers of the governor and mayor, including ability to shut off utilities, direct evacuations, regulate materials and supplies, and suspend other laws during emergencies.

• Applies to both state-level emergencies declared by the governor and local emergencies declared by mayors.

• Takes effect on March 22, 2075.