April 28, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com — Maui wildfire victim fund approval: In a rare moment of bipartisan unity, the Hawaiʻi Legislature approved an $807 million contribution to the Maui Wildfires Settlement Trust Fund, marking a major step toward compensating victims of the devastating August 2023 fires. Applause even broke out during the committee hearing—a scene seldom witnessed at the Capitol.
Funding a Landmark $4 Billion Global Settlement
Hawaiʻi Lawmakers Approve: The newly approved legislation, House Bill 1001, commits the state to deposit $807 million over the next four years. This amount represents Hawaiʻi’s share of a larger $4.04 billion settlement that also includes:
- $1.99 billion from Hawaiian Electric Co. (HECO)
- $872.5 million from Kamehameha Schools
- Additional contributions from West Maui landowners and telecommunications companies such as Hawaiian Telcom and Spectrum
These funds will compensate over 1,000 homeowners, businesses, and families who suffered property loss, personal injury, wrongful death, and emotional distress from the wildfires.
Legal Approval and Remaining Hurdles
Importantly, the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court already approved the global settlement in February 2025, rejecting opposition from nearly 200 insurers who had paid out over $2.3 billion to policyholders. Nevertheless, some final approvals are still pending.
Specifically, Kamehameha Schools must secure clearance from the state probate court and the IRS before releasing its share. Meanwhile, HECO has already raised $500 million for its first installment.
Direct Aid and Ongoing Support Efforts
In addition to the settlement fund, the state previously contributed $65 million to the One ʻOhana Fund, a separate wildfire assistance initiative. Other key contributors to One ʻOhana include:
- HECO ($75 million)
- Kamehameha Schools ($17.5 million)
- Maui County ($10 million)
- Charter/Spectrum, Hawaiian Telcom, and West Maui Land Co. ($2.5 million each)
Although about one-third of the total settlement will go to legal fees, officials emphasized that the priority remains helping families rebuild and heal.
“This settlement offers a timely and compassionate resolution,” stated Rep. David Tarnas, who helped negotiate HB 1001’s passage.
Impact on the Community
The Lahaina wildfires took 102 lives and caused unprecedented damage. By offering swift compensation through the trust fund, lawmakers aim to relieve pressure on the judicial system and provide immediate financial relief to impacted residents.
Moreover, the funding signals a commitment to rebuild Lahaina and ensure stronger protections against future disasters.
Source: Honolulu Civil Beat
FAQs: Maui Wildfire Victim Fund Settlement
What is the Maui wildfire victim fund?
The Maui wildfire victim fund is a $4 billion settlement trust established to compensate residents, businesses, and families impacted by the August 2023 Lahaina wildfires.
How much is Hawaiʻi contributing to the Maui wildfire victim fund?
Hawaiʻi lawmakers have committed $807 million over four years as part of the larger $4.04 billion settlement agreement.
Who else is contributing to the Maui wildfire victim fund?
Major contributors include Hawaiian Electric Co., Kamehameha Schools, West Maui landowners, Hawaiian Telcom, and Spectrum. More details can be found in the Hawaiʻi State Legislature bill summary.
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