Bill > SB2226

This bill mandates that all individuals operating or riding on a motorcycle in Hawaii must wear a safety helmet securely fastened with a chin strap, a change from the previous law which did not universally require helmets for motorcycle riders and passengers, though it did require them for those under eighteen on motor scooters. The bill also clarifies that certain three-wheeled, electric-powered motor scooters with enclosed cabs and seat belts are exempt from helmet requirements. This legislative action is prompted by a concerning rise in motorcycle accidents, injuries, and fatalities in Hawaii, with data indicating that a significant percentage of recent fatalities involved riders not wearing helmets, and drawing parallels to other states where the repeal of helmet laws has been linked to increased motorcycle deaths.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2226&year=2026