Bills

Dangerous dogs pose a significant challenge in Puna, Hawaii, prompting Representative Ilagan to spearhead efforts to address the issue. With the introduction of Bill HB2058, in collaboration with Representatives Tarnas and Nishimoto and Senator Karl Rhodes, the team aims to identify and sanction the owners of dangerous dogs, enhancing community safety. The public is encouraged to contribute testimonies and participate in the solution.

The Office of Representative Ilagan is actively addressing the home insurance crisis affecting Puna residents, especially those in lava zones 1 and 2. The withdrawal of Universal Property and Casualty Insurance Co., one of the primary insurance providers, has left residents with limited options, with the Hawaii Property Insurance Association (HPIA) being the only remaining provider. The office is considering several potential solutions, including seeking a state subsidy for HPIA, establishing a robust consumer alert system, developing detailed lava flow models, and exploring payment plan options for HPIA policyholders. The goal is to ensure everyone can access affordable and reliable insurance coverage, regardless of where they live.

The Pohoiki Boat Ramp, a crucial part of the Puna community and local economy, is a top priority for my office. Despite the lack of federal assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), we have secured $5.4 million in state funding to begin dredging the black sands and restore ocean access. The ramp plays a significant role in commercial fishing, oceanic and volcanic tours, food sustainability, and cultural practices. We are working closely with the Department of Land and Natural Resources, The Limtiaco Consulting Group, Senator Joy San Buenaventura, and Council Member Ashley Kierkiewicz to foster essential cooperation between Federal, State, and County governments. Our next step is to secure FEMA's approval for reimbursement eligibility, a decision we hope to receive in 2023.

Recognizing the rapid population growth in Puna and the subsequent increase in vehicular traffic, I have successfully advocated for a $1,500,000 Capital Improvement Project to identify the most suitable location for an alternate route below Highway 130. This route will not only alleviate traffic congestion but also provide multiple exit and entry points in times of emergencies or natural disasters.

After the 2021 Legislative Session, Representative Greggor Ilagan returned to Puna and considered the challenges they faced as Puna residents. The problem of abandoned vehicles was among the most pressing issues afflicting the Puna community, as evidenced by how many vehicles Rep. Ilagan saw cluttered on the roadways of his neighborhoods.

After the 2021 Legislative Session, Representative Greggor Ilagan returned to Puna and considered the challenges they faced as Puna residents. The problem of abandoned vehicles was among the most pressing issues afflicting the Puna community, as evidenced by how many vehicles Rep. Ilagan saw cluttered on the roadways of his neighborhoods.