Bill Text: HI HB1421 | 2010 | Regular Session | Introduced

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Bill Title: Noise Pollution; Leaf Blowers; Ban

Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 1-0)

Status: (Introduced - Dead) 2009-05-11 - Carried over to 2010 Regular Session. [HB1421 Detail]

Download: Hawaii-2010-HB1421-Introduced.html

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Report Title:

Noise Pollution; Leaf Blowers; Ban

 

Description:

Bans the operation of leaf blowers in Hawaii.

 

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.B. NO.	1421
TWENTY-FIFTH LEGISLATURE, 2009
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

 

 

RELATING TO LEAF BLOWERS.

 

 

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

 

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that noise pollution is steadily increasing as a problem, particularly in densely populated parts of the State.  Among the major contributors to noise pollution are leaf blowers, which create an excessive and unusual amount of noise, often operating at up to ninety decibels.  The sustained operation of leaf blowers at this decibel level can literally be deafening to persons within earshot of the devices.  The sound is not only extremely annoying and distracting, but also has the potential to cause permanent hearing damage.  In addition, leaf blowers tend to blow dirt, dust, and other particulate matter into the air, reducing the air quality of their surroundings and aggravating the conditions of persons who suffer from allergies and asthma.

     The purpose of this Act is to promote public health by banning the use of leaf blowers within the State.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 342F, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

     "§342F-    Leaf blowers; ban.  (a)  Effective January 1, 2010, it shall be unlawful for any person within the State, including an employee of the State or any of its political subdivisions, to use or cause to be used a leaf blower.

     (b)  Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, any person who violates this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

     (c)  A leaf blower shall include but not be limited to any portable machine powered with a gasoline engine or electric motor that is used to blow leaves, dirt, and other debris off sidewalks, driveways, lawns, or other surfaces."

     SECTION 3.  New statutory material is underscored.

     SECTION 4.  This Act shall take effect on January 1, 2010.

 

INTRODUCED BY:	_____________________________