Kevin Baggs

The Hawaii Electronic Information Technology Disability Access Standards establish minimum accessibility requirements for electronic information technology (EIT) developed, purchased, used, or provided by state entities. The standards primarily adopt Section 508 Standards and WCAG 2.1 Level A and AA. The document outlines recommendations for integrating accessibility into IT project roadmapping, planning, procurement, and ongoing operations, including monitoring, periodic reviews, training, and continuous improvement, to ensure equivalent access for individuals with disabilities.

The State Fire Council meeting included discussions and actions on several key areas. Amendments to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1 Fire Code, 2024 Edition, were addressed, focusing on the code for fireworks and photovoltaic systems. Legislative bills related to fireworks and fire protection were reviewed, and the council discussed wildland-urban interface risk assessment and mitigation. Updates were provided on the transfer of the State Fire Marshal and SFC to the Department of Law Enforcement (DLE), along with an NFPA update. Changes to the SFC bylaws were discussed and approved. The meeting also covered the SFC FY 2025 Annual Report, the Reduced Ignition Propensity Cigarette Program, and the nomination and vote for the Chair and Vice Chair.

The State Fire Council (SFC) meeting covered various topics including grant acquisitions for fire departments across different counties, county-specific issues such as wildfire management and facility renovations, and updates on personnel matters. The council discussed proposed legislative bills for 2023, including amendments to state fire council composition and permissible uses of consumer fireworks. There were discussions on NFPA updates, including amendments to the NFPA 2021 fire code and the incorporation of next-generation refrigerants. The meeting also included a presentation on HVAC systems safety.

The State Fire Council (SFC) meeting covered various topics, including grant updates from different fire departments, county issues, and other matters such as recruit classes and equipment acquisitions. The SFC also discussed legislative bills related to fire safety, including residential sprinklers, smoke alarms, fireworks task force, and search and rescue operations. Additionally, there was an NFPA update and discussions on the strategic direction for the SFC, including the possibility of expanding membership and standardizing fire service reporting and training.

The State Fire Council meeting covered topics such as NFPA training and certification of inspectors for HVAC smoke damper assemblies, amendments to the State Fire Code regarding new refrigerants, and the state fire code adoption process. The council also discussed and voted on various bills, including those related to the use of RIPC funds, residential fire sprinkler systems, consumer fireworks, shipping container inspection programs, and emergency worker definitions. Additionally, the council reviewed the SFC budget, a potential candidate for a vacancy, and the RIPC program's financial status.