HI SR85

Requests all high-occupancy state and county buildings with design commencing on or after July 1, 2025, be designed and constructed to withstand Category 5 hurricanes as determined by wind zone maps.

Requests these buildings be designated and used as emergency shelters during disasters.

Defines "high-occupancy state and county buildings" as state- and county-owned public buildings subject to Section 430 of the Hawaii State Building Code (approved April 20, 2021).

Cites climate change and warming ocean temperatures as increasing hurricane frequency and intensity in Hawaii, with Category 5 hurricanes projected to occur annually by century's end.

Directs certified copies be sent to the Governor, Comptroller, State Building Code Council Chair, and planning directors for all four counties.