The fund for
Families of those killed would receive
Green framed the fund as an option for survivors considering suing the state of
People who accept the fund's money will waive their right to sue the entities who contributed to the fund.
Green said those who sue could potentially wait three, four or five years before they receive money and incur significant legal costs.
“This recovery fund amounts to an offer and it’s really up to people if they choose to take this offer,” Green said at an announcement and news conference.
Multiple lawsuits have already been filed on behalf of wildfire victims against the state, the county, utilities and landlords.
But even if they don't, Green said his emergency proclamation for the wildfire gives him powers to put forward the state's share.
“It’s important to have someone that is local who really understands the people of our state - also the people of a rural community,” Green said.
Ibarra said
Green said if there's money left over after all claims have been paid, the balance will be returned to the funders in proportion to the amount they donated. The governor said it's unlikely that all survivors will file claims.
“I would be very surprised if 100% of people took this offer because some people will find that it’s better to litigate. That is absolutely okay,” he said.
The fund is named “One Ohana” after the Hawaiian word for family. It begins accepting applications on
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