S.R. No. 194 Summary

• Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is requested to conduct a feasibility study on providing reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities to access beaches with public restrooms in ocean recreation management areas.

• Study must assess beach topography and physical characteristics, identify responsible counties for maintenance of beach transit corridors, and recommend accommodations complying with 28 C.F.R. parts 35 and 36 and Hawaii Revised Statutes chapter 489.

• Study must include recommendations for administrative rules necessary to provide and maintain reasonable accommodations for beach access.

• DLNR must submit a report on the feasibility study 20 days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2025.

• Current beach wheelchair access is limited at most Hawaii beaches despite the state's commitment to offering beach access to all visitors.