Requesting The Department Of Health To Convene A Community Noise Working Group To Discuss Policies And Legislation With Respect To Noise Sources Affecting The Community.
Summary
SR165 is a Senate resolution requesting the Hawaii Department of Health to convene a Community Noise Working Group. The group is directed to examine noise sources affecting communities, with particular attention to concerts and events at private venues in primarily residential areas, and to discuss possible policy and legislative responses. The resolution cites noise pollution as a public health concern linked to hearing loss, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep disruption, and stress.
The working group is to be chaired by the Director of Health or a designee and include representatives from the Legislature, Honolulu City Council, the Attorney General, law enforcement, the Honolulu Police Department, the Public Defender, and the City and County of Honolulu prosecuting attorney’s office, along with a noise expert and any other appropriate participants. The group must submit a report with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature before the 2027 Regular Session.
Impact
Because SR165 is a resolution rather than a statute, it does not directly change Hawaii law or create new permitting requirements. Instead, it directs the Department of Health to study community noise issues and assemble a multi-agency working group to evaluate existing gaps, especially around noise from concerts and events at private venues. Its practical impact is to initiate a policy review that could lead to future legislation affecting noise regulation, public health enforcement, and local event permitting.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment appears supportive and precautionary. The resolution passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee 5-0 with amendments, suggesting broad agreement that noise pollution is a legitimate public health and community issue worth studying. The framing emphasizes resident impacts and the need for coordinated input from health, law enforcement, legal, and local government stakeholders.
Contention
The main point of contention reflected in the resolution is the regulation of noise from concerts and events at private venues, especially in primarily residential areas. The measure notes that such events are not currently subject to permitting requirements, implying a policy gap that may be addressed in future legislation. Any debate is likely to center on balancing community quality of life and public health against property rights, entertainment activity, and enforcement concerns, though no transcript discussion is provided.
Same As
Requesting The Department Of Health To Convene A Community Noise Working Group To Discuss Policies And Legislation With Respect To Noise Sources Affecting The Community.