Bill > HB226

This bill addresses regulations for window tinting on motor vehicles in Hawaii, making several key changes to existing law. It prohibits the installation of sun screening devices with mirrored or highly reflective finishes that produce red, yellow, amber, or blue appearances when viewed from outside the vehicle. The bill requires drivers and passengers with tinted windows to fully roll down their windows during traffic stops, with exceptions for those with physical disabilities or mechanical issues. It clarifies light transmittance requirements for front side windows and wing windows, maintaining a minimum of 35% light transmission (plus or minus 6%), and exempts rear windows and side windows behind the driver from these requirements. The legislation increases fines for violations, with owners facing $300-$550 penalties and installers facing $700-$1,200 fines. Additionally, the bill mandates that installers provide a compliance certificate to vehicle owners, and failure to do so or the absence of this certificate in the vehicle can be considered a violation. The legislature justifies these changes by noting the need for better heat reduction in vehicles, particularly in light of climate change, and aims to ensure safety and compliance with federal motor vehicle safety standards.

Business and Industry, Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=226&year=2025