STAND. COM. REP. NO. 660

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: S.B. No. 792

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2021

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Judiciary, to which was referred S.B. No. 792 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose and intent of this measure is to increase the minimum and maximum fines for violating certain provisions relating to the installation of a noisy muffler.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from Waikiki Neighborhood Board No. 9 and twelve individuals.

Your Committee finds that many residents throughout the State have submitted complaints regarding the growing noise pollution and disturbance from loud mufflers on motor vehicles, primarily motorcycles. Complainants claim that the noise level adversely affects their sleep, particularly in the early morning hour or late at night. The noise level impacts public health and safety, as well as peaceful enjoyment and quality of life.

Your Committee further finds that while existing law prohibits vehicle owners from installing mufflers that increase the noise of their vehicle, the penalties are minimal and do little to deter violators of the existing muffler laws, and in fact, violators are known to add the enhanced noise mufflers after they have passed the county vehicle safety check. This measure will provide a disincentive for vehicle owners to install noisy mufflers by increasing penalties.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Judiciary that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 792 and recommends that it pass Third Reading.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Judiciary,

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KARL RHOADS, Chair