Hawaii Senate Bill SCR131

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/16/26
• Refer: 3/19/26

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Health To Develop, Publish, And Periodically Update Public Health Guidance And Educational Materials Regarding Radiofrequency Energy Exposure From Cellular Towers.

Summary

SCR131 is a concurrent resolution requesting the Hawaii Department of Health to develop, publish, and periodically update public health guidance and educational materials about radiofrequency energy exposure from cellular towers, including 5G small-cell and millimeter-wave deployments. The requested materials would summarize relevant scientific studies, explain exposure sources and measurement methods, describe possible human health and environmental effects, cite applicable federal exposure standards, explain how radiofrequency energy is transmitted and how exposure occurs, and provide instructions for the public to locate cellular towers in their neighborhoods. The resolution also asks the Department of Health to make the guidance available on its website and by mail upon request. In addition, it requests statewide radiofrequency energy measurements, including 5G millimeter-wave measurements, and publication of those measurements along with any associated findings and potential health or environmental effects. As a concurrent resolution, SCR131 would not itself amend the Hawaii Revised Statutes or create enforceable regulatory requirements, but it would express the Legislature’s desire that the Department undertake these public information and measurement activities.

Impact

SCR131 would not directly change state law or impose binding duties, but it would direct attention and resources toward public health education and monitoring of radiofrequency exposure from cellular infrastructure. Its practical effect would be to encourage the Department of Health to compile and disseminate information, conduct statewide measurements, and publish results for public access, potentially influencing future policy, permitting, or public-health guidance related to wireless infrastructure and 5G deployment.

Sentiment

No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no documented floor or committee debate to gauge formal support or opposition. Based on the resolution’s language, the measure is framed as a precautionary public-health and transparency initiative, suggesting an intent to inform residents rather than regulate wireless service directly. The overall tone of the bill text is concerned and cautionary about possible health and environmental impacts of radiofrequency exposure.

Contention

The main point of contention is the underlying claim that 5G and cellular tower radiofrequency emissions may pose significant health or environmental risks. Supporters of the resolution appear to favor more public information, measurement, and disclosure, while likely opponents would question the scientific basis for the asserted harms, the emphasis on anecdotal evidence, and the need for state-level action beyond existing federal standards. Another likely area of disagreement is whether the Department of Health should devote resources to statewide measurements and public guidance on a topic that remains scientifically disputed.