Bill > SB1216

This bill addresses vehicle noise pollution by strengthening regulations around mufflers and exhaust systems in Hawaii. Specifically, the bill modifies several existing laws to condition vehicle inspection certificates on vehicles not having noisy mufflers, requiring safety inspections to explicitly check for loud exhaust systems. The bill increases the maximum fine for violating noise regulations from $100 to $150 for first-time offenses, with escalating penalties for subsequent violations within a three-year period (up to $950 for third offenses). Additionally, the bill allows the state to suspend or revoke permits for official inspection stations that repeatedly fail to enforce muffler noise regulations. The legislation also expands prohibited practices for motor vehicle repair to include installing or repairing mufflers that do not comply with noise standards. These changes aim to reduce excessive vehicle noise by creating more stringent enforcement mechanisms and financial penalties for non-compliant vehicle owners and repair shops. The bill will take effect immediately upon approval and does not impact any legal rights, penalties, or proceedings that occurred before its effective date.

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1216&year=2025