Bill > HB229

This bill amends Hawaii's traffic laws to expand existing restrictions on large commercial vehicles using the far left lane on roads with three or more lanes traveling in the same direction. The bill now includes motor vehicles towing trailers or other vehicles in these lane restrictions, requiring them to move out of the far left lane unless they are maintaining traffic flow speed or actively passing another vehicle. The legislation adds specific 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 new rules will only apply to counties with a population of 500,000 or more, which effectively means the law will primarily impact urban areas like Honolulu. The bill also provides exemptions for vehicles preparing to turn left, exit, or for specific types of vehicles such as public transit, school buses, and emergency vehicles. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 3000, which appears to be a placeholder date typically used when the exact implementation date is still being determined.

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=229&year=2026