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Bill

Bill

SB 2226

RELATING TO TRAFFIC REGULATION.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 2226 empowers Hawaiʻi counties to create and enforce tailored traffic regulations, improving local safety and traffic flow for residents and commuters.

Reported from TCA/WTL (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 2605) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to JDC/WAM.
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Bill Summary · SB 2226

Summary of SB 2226: Relating to Traffic Regulation

Overview

Bill Number: SB 2226
Introduced: January 18, 2024
Status: Reported from TCA/WTL with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1), and referred to JDC/WAM.
Primary Sponsor: Senator Kouchi
Companion Bill: HB 1856

SB 2226 aims to enhance traffic regulation in the state of Hawaiʻi by addressing vehicular access and related ordinances. This bill is part of the Hawaiʻi Association of Counties Package, which seeks to empower local governments in managing traffic and transportation issues more effectively.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SB 2226 is to provide local counties with greater authority to regulate traffic and vehicular access. This includes the ability to establish ordinances that can better address the unique transportation challenges faced by different regions within the state.

Key Provisions

  • Local Authority Enhancement: The bill proposes to grant counties the power to create and enforce their own traffic regulations, tailored to local needs.
  • Ordinance Development: Counties would be able to develop specific ordinances regarding vehicular access, which may include restrictions on certain roads or areas to improve safety and traffic flow.
  • Amendments: The bill has undergone amendments during its committee reviews, although specific details of these amendments are not provided in the current summary.

Affected Parties

  • Local Governments: Counties in Hawaiʻi will gain increased regulatory powers, allowing them to address local traffic issues more effectively.
  • Residents and Commuters: The bill is expected to impact residents and commuters by potentially improving traffic conditions and safety through tailored local regulations.
  • Law Enforcement: Local law enforcement agencies will be responsible for enforcing the new traffic regulations established by the counties.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 18, 2024: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.
  • January 24, 2024: Re-referred to TCA/WTL, JDC/WAM.
  • February 9, 2024: Public hearing scheduled for February 13, 2024.
  • February 13, 2024: Committees on TCA and WTL recommended the bill be passed with amendments.
  • February 16, 2024: Report adopted; bill passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1), and referred to JDC/WAM.

Conclusion

SB 2226 represents a significant step towards empowering local governments in Hawaiʻi to manage traffic regulations more effectively. By allowing counties to establish their own ordinances, the bill aims to enhance public safety and improve traffic conditions across the state. As the legislative process continues, further details on the specific amendments and their implications will be crucial for understanding the full impact of this bill.

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

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