Bill > SB1147

This bill addresses noise pollution in Hawaii by amending the state's disorderly conduct law to more precisely define unreasonable noise. Specifically, it establishes that producing noise exceeding 80 decibels (dBA) between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. in residential or mixed-use residential areas constitutes an unreasonable noise violation. The bill is motivated by research from the Environmental Protection Agency highlighting the negative health impacts of excessive noise, such as stress, high blood pressure, and sleep disruption. To support enforcement, the legislation appropriates funds for the Department of Health to hire a full-time staff member to train law enforcement officers in using sound level meters and to purchase sound level meters for county agencies. The bill acknowledges previous challenges in noise control enforcement, including limited resources and a focus on stationary mechanical noise sources. By providing clearer standards and resources for measurement, the legislation aims to improve quality of life for residents in urban areas by reducing disruptive nighttime noise and giving law enforcement a more precise tool to address noise complaints.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1147&year=2025