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GM 1229

Informing the Legislature that on May 29, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB226 HD3 SD1 CD1 (ACT 129).

2025 Regular Session

Act 129 enhances vehicle safety by banning certain tints, requiring windows down during stops, clarifying light levels, and increasing fines for violations in Hawaii.

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Bill Summary · GM 1229

Summary of GM 1229: Informing the Legislature of Act 129

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: GM 1229
- Title: Informing the Legislature that on May 29, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB226 HD3 SD1 CD1 (ACT 129).
- Status: Received
- Introduced: May 29, 2025
- Classification: Proclamation
- Subject: Act 129

Purpose and Intent of the Bill

GM 1229 serves as a formal notification to the Hawaii State Legislature that the Governor, Josh Green, M.D., has signed into law House Bill 226, which is now known as Act 129. The primary focus of Act 129 is to amend existing regulations concerning windshield tinting on motor vehicles in Hawaii. The legislation aims to address public safety and environmental concerns related to vehicle window tinting.

Key Provisions of Act 129

Act 129 introduces several significant changes to the regulations surrounding windshield tinting:

  1. Prohibition of Certain Tints:

    • The law prohibits the installation of mirrored or high-reflective finishes that produce red, yellow, amber, or blue appearances when viewed from outside the vehicle.

  2. Window Compliance at Traffic Stops:

    • Drivers and passengers in vehicles with applied tint must fully roll down their windows when stopped by law enforcement, with exceptions for individuals with physical disabilities or mechanical failures.

  3. Clarification of Light Transmittance Levels:

    • The bill clarifies the acceptable light transmittance levels for sun screening devices on front side windows and wing windows, maintaining a minimum of 35% light transmittance.

  4. Exemptions:

    • Rear windows and side windows behind the driver on sedans are exempt from the sun screening device requirements.

  5. Increased Penalties:

    • The bill increases the minimum and maximum fines for violations of the sun screening device regulations. Fines can range from $300 to $1,200 depending on the nature of the violation.

  6. Prima Facie Evidence:

    • The absence of a compliance certificate for sun screening devices will be considered prima facie evidence of noncompliance, placing the burden on the installer.

Impact of the Bill

The implementation of Act 129 is expected to have several impacts:

  • Public Safety: By requiring drivers to roll down their windows during traffic stops, the law aims to enhance communication and safety between law enforcement and the public.
  • Environmental Considerations: The bill acknowledges the effects of climate change by addressing the need for better heat management in vehicles through appropriate window tinting.
  • Compliance and Enforcement: Increased penalties and clearer regulations may lead to better compliance among vehicle owners and installers, ultimately improving road safety.

Procedural Aspects

  • Date of Signing: The bill was signed into law on May 29, 2025.
  • Legislative Action: GM 1229 was received by the legislature on the same date, marking the formal acknowledgment of the law's enactment.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of GM 1229 and Act 129, outlining the bill's purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on public safety and compliance in Hawaii.

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

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