Informing the Legislature that on July 5, 2024, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB2107 HD2 SD1 CD1 (ACT 210).

This bill appropriates $200,000 to the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency to improve disaster response for residents with limited English proficiency. The funding is split between creating one full-time language access coordinator position and supporting community projects like translation services and public announcements. This change aims to address barriers faced by these individuals in understanding evacuation orders and accessing emergency aid, particularly in light of challenges observed during the Maui wildfires. The legislation takes effect on July 1, 2024, and applies to the state's fiscal year 2024-2025.