HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-02-03 Mayor Harry Kim's testimony re SB 988Harry Kim
Mayor
Wil Okabe
Managing Director
Barbara J. Kossow
Deputy Managing Director
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(Office of t(j>e 4agar
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 a Hilo, Hawaii 96720 • (808) 961-8211 a Fax (808) 961-6553
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February 3, 2017
Senator Clarence K. Nishihara, Chair
Public Safety, Intergovernmental & Military Affairs
Senator Mike Gabbard, Chair
Agriculture & Environment
Hawai'i State Capitol
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dear Chairs Nishihara, Gabbard and Committee Members:
RE: SB 988
Thank you for this opportunity to testify in support of SB 988.
We are informed by the State National Flood Insurance Program Coordinator that her
agency has been working closely with FEMA to prevent the State from being suspended
from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). That program provides flood maps
used to identify flood risk areas; flood insurance; disaster relief assistanceffunds; and
much more. Participation in the NFIP is essential for the State and counties of Hawaii
in terms of federal assistance for damage sustained during natural disasters.
It is my understanding that administration bills HB 1122 and SB 988 would bring the
State into compliance with FEMA's regulations, while SB 873 and SB1118 could
jeopardize our continued participation.
Therefore, we respectfully request your approval of SB 988.
Respectfully submitted,
Harry Kim
Mayor
County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer