HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0110.011 2024-2026Suzanne Bennett
2405 Kalanianaole St. #501
Hilo, Hawai'i 96720
Mar 6, 2025
Hawai'i County Council
25 Aupuni St.
Hilo, Hawai'i 96720
RE: Opposition Testimony Bill 24
Aloha Councilmembers, --
My name is Sue Bennett, and I am testifying in opposition to Bill 24 because of its potential to
harm healthcare access on Hawai'i Island. As a retired nurse who spent decades caring for
patients in Hilo, I know firsthand how essential reliable wireless and broadband infrastructure
is —not just for convenience, but for saving lives.
Bill 24's restrictive regulations on telecommunications infrastructure could slow the expansion of
critical networks, making it harder for residents, particularly in rural areas, to access healthcare.
Telehealth has become a lifeline for many —allowing patients to consult with doctors without the
burden of long travel times or costly trips to medical facilities. Yet, 21 % of low-income families in
Hawai'i lack internet access entirely, which means far too many people are already cut off from
essential care.
The need for connectivity extends beyond telehealth. 80% of 9-1-1 calls originate from mobile
phones. When every second matters, strong and reliable networks ensure that first responders
can locate and assist people in crisis. A dropped call or a weak signal could literally mean the
difference between life and death.
State and federal funding exists to expand broadband and improve access, and
telecommunications providers are ready to invest in our island. But if Bill 24 moves forward as
written, it will discourage these investments and make it even harder to close the healthcare gap
for our most vulnerable communities.
This bill, in its current form, creates more obstacles than solutions. 1 urge the Council to
reconsider its approach and prioritize policies that strengthen —not restrict —our island's ability
to provide essential healthcare and emergency services.
Sincerely,
Sue