SB 508 Hawaii Senate · 2026 Regular Session

RELATING TO SEARCH AND RESCUE.

Summary
Establishes the hike safe card program and search and rescue special fund to be administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Requires government entities to seek reimbursement for all or a portion of search or rescue expenses when the person or entity knowingly enters state, county, or private property, knowingly enters a hiking trail that is closed to the public, or violates applicable laws, provided that the closure is posted by sign, barricade, or other device that gives reasonable notice of the closure. Exempts persons who possess a hike safe card from search and rescue cost reimbursement, under certain conditions. Requires counties and the State Fire Council to adopt ordinances or rules as necessary to pursue reimbursements. Raises the penalty for criminal trespass from a petty misdemeanor to a misdemeanor. Makes appropriations.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 17, 2025 Last action Jan 21, 2026
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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
5
Key actions
0
Committee
2
Jan 21, 2026
Committee
Re-Referred to WLA/PSM, WAM/JDC.
upper
Jan 21, 2025
Committee
Referred to WTL/PSM, WAM/JDC.
upper
Jan 17, 2025
Introduced
Introduced.
upper
9 primary · 2 co-sponsors

Sponsors