Bill > HB229

This bill modifies existing Hawaii traffic law to expand restrictions on using the far left lane on roads with three or more lanes moving in the same direction. The bill now applies not just to commercial vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds, but also to any motor vehicle towing a vehicle or trailer. These vehicles are prohibited from driving in the far left lane unless they are maintaining the speed of traffic or actively passing another vehicle. The bill introduces new penalties for violations, including fines for first, second, and third offenses, with the third offense potentially requiring both a fine and attendance at a traffic safety course. Importantly, these restrictions and penalties will only apply to counties with a population of 500,000 or more, which effectively means the bill targets Hawaii's most populous county (likely Honolulu on the island of Oahu). The law includes specific exemptions for vehicles turning left, exiting, preparing to turn left or exit, as well as public transit vehicles, school buses, and emergency vehicles. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 3000, which appears to be a placeholder date and would likely be corrected before final passage.

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=229&year=2025