House committee approves bill recognizing ocean lifeguards as first responders

The House Committee on Labor voted to pass HCR 46/HR 42 with technical amendments, moving a resolution that would recognize ocean lifeguards as first responders forward to the next stage of review.

Supporters told the committee lifeguards regularly perform front-line medical and rescue tasks at beaches and shorelines statewide. Kalani Vierra, president of the Hawaiian Lifeguard Association and operations chief for the Kauai Ocean Safety Bureau, said: "After 30 years on the front lines, I can tell you clearly that recognition is long overdue." Dr. Graham Clifford, an emergency physician and medical director for Honolulu Ocean Safety, added, "Ocean lifeguards are first responders in every operational, clinical, and public safety sense of the word."

Youth participants and local lifeguards described frequent, time-sensitive emergencies on Hawaii shores and urged the committee to back the measure so lifeguards can access training, funding and services more easily. A 13-year-old junior-lifeguard, Lauren Duarte, told the committee the designation "means a lot" to those who see lifeguarding as a long-term calling.

Proponents said the recognition would remove barriers to federal and other grant funding that are often written for designated first responders, and could expand access to specialized driver and clinical training. Testimony also noted mental-health implications for lifeguards, citing higher exposures to traumatic incidents and a need for therapy and support services.

At decision-making, the chair recommended passage with technical amendments for clarity and style; the recommendation was adopted. The committee recorded an excused absence for one member and otherwise adopted the chair's recommendation.

Next steps: the resolution will move forward per the committee's amended recommendation.