Bill > SB419

This bill requires motor vehicle insurance policies to provide coverage for replacing child passenger restraint systems (car seats) that were damaged or in use during a motor vehicle accident. Specifically, when an insurance claim is filed, the insurer must either replace the child passenger restraint system or reimburse the claimant for purchasing a new one, regardless of whether the accident was caused by an insured or uninsured motorist. The bill is based on recommendations from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which advises replacing car seats after moderate or severe collisions due to potential structural weakening that may not be visually apparent. The legislation aims to prioritize child safety, reduce financial burden on families, and align with best practices for child passenger safety. A "child passenger restraint system" is defined according to existing state transportation regulations, and insureds are given the option to surrender the replaced car seat to the department of transportation. The bill will take effect on July 1, 3000, and does not retroactively affect existing contracts or previously initiated legal proceedings.

Business and Industry, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=419&year=2026