Petition to Support the Emergency Powers Accountability Act of 2025

When the fires of Lahaina devastated our islands in 2023, I came home searching for answers. What I found was heartbreaking; laws that give government leaders unchecked authority, enabling negligence and disregard for the very people they’re supposed to protect. Hawai‘i deserves accountability and leadership that serves the people first.

To the Hawaiʻi State Legislature:

We, the undersigned residents of Hawaiʻi, call upon our elected officials to pass the Emergency Powers Accountability Act of 2025 to restore checks and balances, protect constitutional rights, and prevent abuse of emergency powers.

Why This Matters
Under current law (HRS Chapter 127A), the Governor can extend emergency powers indefinitely, with little oversight.

This has allowed prolonged rule by proclamation, undermining legislative authority and eroding public trust.
Emergency powers were meant for short-term crises, not to replace democratic governance.
When leaders hold on to unlimited powers, the people lose their voice.

What This Bill Will Do
✅ Limit emergency proclamations to 60 days, with any extension requiring legislative approval.
✅ Require extensions to be based on evidence and real need, not politics.
✅ Protect constitutional rights; free speech, due process, freedom of religion, & cultural practices from suspension.
✅ Ensure transparency through public reports and hearings.

Why Your Signature Matters
Emergencies must be managed responsibly, but without indefinite executive control. Hawaiʻi families deserve accountability, transparency, and respect for the rule of law.

This is really about protecting:

👩‍🎓 Our keiki's education —> so schools aren’t disrupted without accountability.
🏪 Our local businesses —> so rules aren’t extended without evidence.
🏡 Private property owners —> so your rights and land are never overruled by unchecked power.
🌺 Our freedom to gather, worship, honor cultural practices, and speak —> without fear of being silenced.

✍️ By signing, you’re saying: “Enough is enough. We deserve balanced leadership, not one-person rule.”