Bill > HB83

This bill aims to address illegal fireworks in Hawaii by significantly increasing criminal penalties for various fireworks-related violations. The legislation would upgrade most fireworks offenses from misdemeanors or class C felonies to higher-level felonies, with escalating consequences for repeat offenders. Specifically, first-time violations for importing, possessing, or selling fireworks without proper permits would now be classified as class B felonies, while subsequent violations would be considered class A felonies. The bill also increases penalties for offenses involving different quantities of fireworks, such as elevating possession of over 25 pounds to a class B felony for first-time offenders and a class A felony for subsequent violations. Additionally, the bill appropriates funds for both the department of law enforcement and county fire departments to improve investigation and enforcement efforts against illegal fireworks, allocating money to each of Hawaii's counties to support these activities. The legislature's rationale for these changes is to create more effective deterrents against illegal fireworks, addressing public safety concerns, potential property damage, and community distress caused by unauthorized fireworks use. The new penalties and enforcement measures will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=83&year=2025