HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0399.002 2024-2026Gill 71
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From: HIFTF Admin
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Sent: Monday, August 4, 2025 11:57 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Testimony in Strong Support of Bill No. 71
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Aloha Chair Onishi, Vice Chair Kimball, and Members of the Committee:
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I am writing in strong support of Bill No. 71, which would amend Chapter 6 of the Hawaii County
Code 1983 to require all establishments licensed to serve alcohol for on -premises consumption in the
County to maintain Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, on -site.
As a community member and advocate for the prevention of overdose deaths, I have seen firsthand
the effects of opioid misuse and understand that alcohol is a potentiator for opioid overdose. For
example, if you are prescribed medication containing an opiate, the first thing a doctor will say, is, DO
NOT take this with alcohol. Furthermore, the doctor will warn you about consuming alcohol if you are
taking medications.
The benefits of Bill No. 71 are clear:
1. Improved Emergency Response in our communities and businesses.
2. Alignment with Best Practices: This legislation reflects evidence -based approaches to
overdose management.
3. Community Impact: By empowering liquor -serving establishments to help reduce the tragic
loss of lives caused by accidental opioid overdoses.
4. Increased Community Collaboration: Giving more organizations and individuals the ability to
render aid and save lives.
I humbly ask you to pass Bill 71 out of committee and support this critical measure to give our
communities the upper hand in combating the ongoing opioid crisis. By advancing this bill, we
demonstrate our commitment.to protecting the health and well-being of our residents.
Mahalo for your consideration and your dedication to our communities.
Me ke aloha,
Kapono
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KAPONO KEKELA
HIFTF Coordinator
►� Kapono@HIFTF.org
® (808) 990-0346
® www.HIFTF.org
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