GOVERNOR SIGNS LEGISLATION TO PROMOTE DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

May 21 - To kick-off Hurricane Preparedness Week in the State of Hawai`i, Governor Lingle joined Jim Weyman, director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Central Pacific Hurricane Center, at a news conference to announce the 2007 hurricane season outlook. "We need to encourage families to develop an emergency plan," the Governor said as she shared the significant role preparedness and partnerships play in the state's response in the event of an emergency or natural disaster.  During the news conference, Governor Lingle also signed into law SB 1402: Relating to the Loss Mitigation Grant Fund. This measure, introduced as part of the Administration’s legislative package, appropriates $2 million out of the Loss Mitigation Grant Fund for fiscal year 2007 – 2008 to encourage homeowners to install wind-resistive measures including the construction of residential safe rooms.  Under Act 80, homeowners are eligible for grants reimbursing 35 percent of costs incurred for wind-resistive measures up to a maximum reimbursement of $2,100 per dwelling.  This law takes effect on July 1, 2007. 

• Watch this bill signing ceremony here.
• Read more about how to protect yourself and your family in the event of a hurricane or natural disaster.
• Visit the Central Pacific Hurricane Center's website to learn more about the forecast for the 2007 hurricane season.
• Read more in the Honolulu Advertiser.