Bill > HB270

This bill creates a new legal offense of urinating or defecating in public, defining a "public place" as any publicly or privately owned property open to public use, including streets, sidewalks, parks, parking lots, and public transportation. The law establishes graduated penalties for violations: a first offense can result in a fine of $500-$1,000 or 48 hours of community service, a second offense increases to a $750-$1,500 fine or 72 hours of community service, and a third offense carries a $1,000-$2,000 fine or 120 hours of community service. The bill includes important exceptions for individuals with verified medical conditions and those using appropriate bathroom facilities. Notably, for homeless individuals arrested under this law, the bill requires the arresting officer to contact Hawai'i CARES 988, which will assign a social worker or psychiatrist to conduct a mandatory mental health screening and provide supportive services. The legislature justifies this law by highlighting public health concerns, including risks of diseases like Hepatitis A and E. Coli, and the potential negative impact on businesses when public spaces are unsanitary. The bill will take effect immediately upon approval and does not retroactively affect previously initiated proceedings or incurred penalties.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=270&year=2026