What's Being Discussed

The Hawaii State Emergency Response Commission (HSERC) will hold its 143rd meeting on September 18, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. in Pearl City. The public can attend in person or join via Zoom or phone. Key topics include:

• Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) updates — Representatives from Hawaii, Kauai, Maui, and Honolulu counties will share quarterly reports on local emergency planning activity.
• County hazardous materials (HAZMAT) planning — A review of county-level HAZMAT plans, including validation and formal adoption of those plans.
• A complaint filed against the Department of Health — A complaint submitted by a member of the public, Mr. Peter Fritz, will be presented and discussed.
• Scheduling 2027 meetings — The commission will plan its upcoming meeting dates for next year.
• U.S. EPA updates — A federal Environmental Protection Agency representative will share current information and materials.
• Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness (HMEP) report — Staff will provide updates on this federally supported preparedness program.
• Department of Health updates — General updates from the Deputy Director for Environmental Health.
• Open forum — Members of the public may comment on issues not listed on the agenda for possible future consideration.

Decisions Expected

• Approval of minutes from the previous meeting.
• Potential adoption of county HAZMAT emergency plans.
• Setting the HSERC and LEPC meeting schedule for 2027.

Who Should Pay Attention

• Residents living near industrial facilities or hazardous materials sites
• Local businesses and industries that handle hazardous chemicals
• Community members interested in emergency preparedness
• Anyone wishing to follow up on the public complaint against the Department of Health

To submit testimony, email sharon.leonida@doh.hawaii.gov by September 14, 2026. Accessibility accommodations can also be requested at that contact.