Bill > SB1096

This bill aims to prohibit license plate flipping devices, which are manual, electric, or mechanical devices that can switch between multiple license plates or hide a license plate from view, potentially preventing law enforcement from identifying a vehicle. The legislation would make it illegal for any person to operate a motor vehicle with, possess, purchase, install, sell, offer for sale, or distribute such devices. Specifically, the bill defines a license plate flipping device as any mechanism designed to either change displayed license plates or obscure the plate number from view. Violators would face a significant financial penalty of up to $2,000 for each separate violation, reflecting the legislature's view that these devices pose a threat to public safety and create challenges for law enforcement. The new law is set to take effect on July 1, 2050, and will not retroactively affect any rights, duties, penalties, or proceedings that existed before its implementation.

Business and Industry, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1096&year=2026