Bill > SB365

This bill prohibits the sale of gasoline-powered leaf blowers, specifically those powered by two-stroke internal combustion engines, beginning January 1, 2027. The legislation is motivated by significant environmental and public health concerns, including noise pollution (leaf blowers can produce 80-100 decibels of sound, which can cause hearing damage) and air pollution (a single hour of operation can produce as much pollution as driving a car for hundreds of miles). The bill amends existing Hawaii Revised Statutes by adding a new provision that makes it unlawful to sell or offer for sale gasoline-powered leaf blowers, with escalating fines for violations ($50 for first offense, increasing to $500 for subsequent offenses). The bill also removes the previous exemption that allowed government entities to be excluded from leaf blower restrictions. The legislation reflects a broader push towards more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as electric and battery-powered leaf blowers, which are noted to be quieter, cleaner, and easier to maintain. Counties retain the ability to adopt even stricter regulations regarding leaf blower use if they choose.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=365&year=2026