THE SENATE

S.R. NO.

31

THIRTIETH LEGISLATURE, 2020

 

STATE OF HAWAII

 

 

 

 

 

SENATE RESOLUTION

 

 

requesting THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH TO CONDUCT A STUDY OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND HEALTH EFFECTS OF FIFTH-GENERATION WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY.

 

 


     WHEREAS, 5G refers to fifth-generation wireless technology intended to provide faster and higher capacity transmissions to carry the massive data load generated by smart devices, the Internet of Things, robotics, artificial intelligence, driverless cars, and other machine-to-machine connections; and

 

     WHEREAS, 5G uses spectrum in the existing Long-Term Evolution frequency range, commonly known by the acronym LTE, and also includes the higher millimeter wave frequencies never before used for Internet or cell phones; and

 

     WHEREAS, 5G relies on millions of new small cell antennas that will be clustered lower to the ground and closer to homes and schools; and

 

     WHEREAS, on June 21, 2018, the Governor signed Act 49, Session Laws of Hawaii 2018, which clears the way for implementation of 5G in Hawaii by standardizing the process of 5G small cell deployments; and

 

     WHEREAS, the increased radio-frequency radiation exposure resulting from more towers being placed closer to the ground may pose risks to the environment and health; and

 

     WHEREAS, studies have found potential negative health effects associated with 5G wireless radiation; and

 

     WHEREAS, the insurance industry may have placed exclusions in policies to exempt damage caused by this technology and certain manufacturers provide warnings to consumers regarding the reception of devices using this technology; and

 

     WHEREAS, input is needed from the technological and other communities as well as persons involved with developing 5G technology; and

 

     WHEREAS, a study is warranted to examine the advantages and risks associated with 5G technology, with a focus on the environmental impact and potential health related effects; now, therefore,

 

     BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the Thirtieth Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2020, that the Department of Health is requested to conduct a study on the environmental and health effects of evolving 5G technology; and

 

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Department of Health is requested to submit a report of its findings to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2021; and

 

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Resolution be transmitted to the Governor and Director of Health.

 

 

 

 

OFFERED BY:

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Report Title: 

Department of Health; 5G; Cellular; Study; Public Health