Bill > HB56

This bill addresses the problem of intentionally placing harmful objects on roadways by creating new legal prohibitions and penalties. Specifically, the bill makes it illegal for anyone to deliberately place items like nails, screws, glass, wire, or other potentially damaging materials on highways, roads, streets, or alleys, with an exception for authorized governmental activities. The legislation requires that anyone who drops destructive materials must immediately remove them, and it also mandates that vehicle removal professionals clean up any injurious substances left behind during their work. Violators face escalating penalties based on their prior traffic offense history: first-time offenders commit a violation, those with one prior traffic offense within a year commit a petty misdemeanor, those with two or more prior offenses commit a misdemeanor, and individuals who place harmful materials with intent to cause physical harm can be charged with a class C felony. The bill was prompted by specific incidents in Oahu where people were leaving nails and screws on roads, causing significant tire damage, and aims to protect drivers and pedestrians by deterring such dangerous behavior. The new law will take effect immediately upon approval and does not impact any rights, penalties, or proceedings that existed before its enactment.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=56&year=2026