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GM 1296

Informing the Legislature that on June 6, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1259 HD1 SD1 CD1 (ACT 196).

2025 Regular Session

Act 196 enhances road safety in Hawaii by requiring engineering studies for speed limits, especially near schools, and encourages consistent regulations statewide.

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Bill Summary · GM 1296

Summary of GM 1296: Informing the Legislature of Act 196

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: GM 1296
- Title: Informing the Legislature that on June 6, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1259 HD1 SD1 CD1 (ACT 196).
- Status: Received
- Introduced: June 6, 2025
- Classification: Proclamation
- Subject: Act 196

Purpose and Intent

GM 1296 serves as a formal notification to the Hawaii State Legislature that the Governor signed House Bill 1259 (HB 1259) into law on June 6, 2025. This bill, now known as Act 196, primarily addresses transportation regulations, specifically focusing on the establishment of maximum speed limits on roads.

Key Provisions of Act 196

The main provisions of Act 196 include amendments to Section 291C-107 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, which governs the setting of maximum speed limits. The key changes are as follows:

  1. Engineering Studies Requirement:

    • The Department of Transportation or county authorities must conduct an engineering study to determine the maximum speed limit for a road. This study must include an analysis of the current speed distribution of free-flowing vehicles.
    • Notably, this requirement does not apply when:
      • Reducing the speed limit within half a mile of a school.
      • Reducing the speed limit by ten miles per hour or less from the current limit.

  2. Consideration of Adjacent Areas:

    • For highways adjacent to residential or commercial areas or schools, the Department of Transportation or counties are encouraged to consider guidance from the National Association of City Transportation Officials, as long as it does not conflict with federal standards.

  3. Additional Factors:

    • The bill allows for the consideration of any other factors as prescribed by the Federal Highway Administration’s Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.

Impact of the Bill

The enactment of Act 196 is expected to have several impacts:

  • Enhanced Safety: By requiring engineering studies and consideration of surrounding areas, the law aims to improve road safety, particularly in areas near schools and residential neighborhoods.
  • Standardization: The incorporation of national guidelines may lead to more consistent speed limit regulations across the state.
  • Local Authority Empowerment: Counties and the Department of Transportation will have clearer guidelines and flexibility in setting speed limits based on local conditions.

Procedural Aspects

  • Effective Date: Act 196 takes effect immediately upon approval, which occurred on June 6, 2025.
  • Legislative Process: The bill passed through both the House of Representatives and the Senate before being signed into law by the Governor.

In summary, GM 1296 serves as an official communication regarding the signing of Act 196, which aims to enhance transportation safety through updated regulations on speed limit setting in Hawaii.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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