Compensation for Maui Wildfire Victims Set at $175 Million – Sky Bulletin
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During a press conference on Tuesday, Governor Josh Green of Hawaii announced the initiation of a $175 million compensation fund designed for the Maui wildfire victims, indicating the fund’s application process will kick off later this week.
Those who lost family members in the tragic Aug. 8 wildfire, which claimed the lives of 101 individuals in Lahaina, or those who sustained severe injuries, are eligible for compensation.
Retired judge Ronald Ibarra will be in charge of confirmations, granting $1.5 million to the families of the deceased. Individuals who were gravely injured will receive funds as determined appropriate by the judge. There are still two people missing following this disaster.
Gov. Green portrayed the fund as an alternative to lengthy litigation that survivors may seek against the state or involved companies such as Hawaiian Electric, stating it could help bypass enduring court battles and high legal fees.
Compensation acceptance from the fund will necessitate that recipients forfeit their rights to pursue further legal actions against those who contributed to the establishment of the fund. Among these contributors are Hawaiian Electric with a donation of $75 million, followed by the state itself contributing $65 million, Kamehameha Schools providing $17.5 million, and Maui County offering $10 million.
While the Hawaiian Legislature has not yet sanctioned the $65 million set aside by the state, Governor Green remains confident in their future approval, emphasizing his ability to supply the state’s share through his emergency proclamation powers.
Ibarra aims to allocate $25 million specifically for those severely injured, with a potential increase of an extra $10 million depending on the funds left after compensating the bereaved families.
If there are funds remaining after all claims are processed, they will be redistributed back to the original stakeholders in proportional amounts. Gov. Green anticipates that not all survivors will seek the offer, acknowledging that some may prefer legal proceedings.
The “One Ohana” fund, named using the Hawaiian term for family, will open its application gates on March 1.
FAQ Section
- Who is eligible for the compensation fund?
Families of those who perished in the Maui wildfire and individuals who were gravely injured are entitled to apply for compensation. - How much compensation will be provided through this fund?
Relatives of deceased victims will be granted $1.5 million. Injured parties will receive an amount determined by the presiding judge based on severity. - What does accepting money from the fund imply?
Acceptance of compensation from the fund includes an agreement to waive the right to sue the contributors of the fund. - Can applicants still pursue legal action after receiving compensation from the fund?
No, if they opt for receiving compensation from the fund, they must give up their right to future litigation against the contributors. - When will the fund start accepting applications?
The application process begins on March 1.
Conclusion
The establishment of the “One Ohana” compensation fund marks a significant step towards providing relief and closure for the families affected by the devastating Maui wildfire. Governor Green’s announcement offers a compassionate alternative to potentially protracted legal processes. With the fund accepting applications shortly, it allows for a more immediate form of assistance, demonstrating a community-centric approach in light of the tragedy. This initiative underscores the Hawaiian spirit of ‘ohana’ in supporting and acknowledging the losses and hardships endured by so many.
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