Bill > SB1147

This bill addresses noise pollution in Hawaii by amending the definition of "unreasonable noise" in the state's disorderly conduct law, establishing specific nighttime noise restrictions for residential and mixed-use residential areas. The bill defines unreasonable noise as sound exceeding 80 decibels (dBA) when measured from thirty feet away between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., in addition to previously existing standards such as gross deviation from law-abiding conduct and failure to heed a police officer's warning. To support implementation, the bill appropriates funds for the Department of Health to create a full-time position for training law enforcement officers in sound level meter usage and to purchase sound level meters for county enforcement. The legislation is motivated by research from the Environmental Protection Agency highlighting the negative health impacts of excessive noise, including stress, high blood pressure, and sleep disruption. The bill aims to improve quality of life in urban areas by providing clearer, more enforceable noise control regulations, with provisions taking effect on July 1, 2025. Additionally, the bill includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the act is found invalid, the remaining provisions can still be implemented.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1147&year=2026