SB626

Hawaii SB626 aims to prevent large trees from obstructing evacuation routes during emergencies.

Hawaii SB626 mandates the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency to identify key evacuation routes and prohibit the planting of large trees along these routes. The bill also requires the agency to identify existing large trees along evacuation routes and trim, spray, or remove them if they pose a risk of obstructing the route. The agency must establish a registry of large trees planted within fifteen feet of evacuation routes and update it regularly. The bill appropriates funds for these activities and takes effect on July 1, 2025.