Ocean safety, school planning, new EIS rules, helicopters
Posted on May 29, 2019 in Capitol Connection, Featured, Main
The state Department of Health has launched a new website that aims to help beachgoers and prevent drownings.
New ocean safety website launched – The Department of Health has launched https://hioceansafety.com, a website that aims to help beachgoers and prevent drownings. Ocean drowning is the state’s fourth-leading cause of injury-related death and the leading cause for visitors. The site offers real-time updates on ocean conditions across the state, “six things you need to know on beach safety” and videos on how to save yourself from drowning.
Public input needed on school plans –The public is invited to provide feedback for the first draft of the state Department of Education’s 2030 Promise Plan to guide school improvements for the next decade. The plan takes the Blueprint for Public Education developed by Governor Ige’s community ESSA team and creates an implementation plan for the future. Feedback will be gathered through Aug.1. For details, go to 808ne.ws/2030Promise and governorige.hawaii.gov/blueprint/.
Governor to sign new EIS rules –The governor has set July 30, 2019 as the date he will sign new rules for the state Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process. Developing these new rules took nearly two years of public meetings, including nine public hearings statewide. It’s the first time in 23 years that the rules have been revamped. “These rules, which take effect Aug. 9, ensure public involvement in decision-making,” said Governor Ige. See health.hawaii.gov/oeqc/rules-update/.
Helicopter flights draw scrutiny – When it comes to citizen complaints about tour helicopters over neighborhoods, state Department of Transportation (HDOT) officials have said they don’t have authority over airspace — only ground facilities at the airports. “Once the aircraft becomes airborne, jurisdiction transfers to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA),” said HDOT officials. However, the Hawai‘i Helicopter Association encourages people to submit concerns about plane noise, low flight frequency and other issues by calling (808) 639-5566 or go to planenoise.com/hha/.