On Thursday, May 1, the Hawaii Legislature adjourned its 2014 regular session. This session saw the introduction of several Second Amendment bills and of particular interest are House Bill 849, House Bill 1902 and House Bill 2246.
HB 849, sponsored by state Representative Joseph Souki (D-8), recodifies Hawaii's emergency management statutes by updating the statutes, clarifying the relationship between the state and county emergency management agencies, and delineating the emergency management functions and powers of the Governor and mayors. In addition, this legislation reiterates that during a declared state of emergency firearms will not be confiscated. In essence, HB 849 made a few minor technical changes but importantly retained protection for law-abiding firearm owners during emergency situations. HB 849 is currently awaiting signature by the Governor.
HB 1902, sponsored by state Representative Cindy Evans (D-7), was introduced with the intention of creating a no-net-loss policy for hunting lands in Hawaii. However, as reported here, it was severely amended in committee and ultimately watered down into creating a hunting advisory commission. In the end, this legislation failed to move beyond its conference committee and was not sent to the Governor.
HB 2246, sponsored by state Representative Joseph Souki (D-8), provides for a court-based relief program for persons federally prohibited from owning a firearm based on a finding of mental illness or civil commitment. This bill will provide an avenue for law-abiding citizens to restore their rights. HB 2246 is currently awaiting signature by the Governor.
Thank you to the countless NRA members across the Aloha State and to pro-gun lawmakers for their hard work and commitment to the Second Amendment during the 2014 legislative session.
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