Relating To State Property.
If enacted, the bill would categorize unlawful signage on state or county property as a petty misdemeanor. This new legal framework is expected to impact the regulation of public property use, facilitating a more organized approach to how written materials are displayed in these spaces. Furthermore, the law does not retroactively affect rights, duties, or penalties that were established before the effective date of the legislation, which maintains a degree of continuity for existing cases and regulations.
Senate Bill 1359 aims to amend Chapter 708 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes by establishing the offense of unlawful signage on state or county property. Under this bill, a person is deemed to commit an offense if they place any type of written material on state or county property without prior written approval from the relevant authority. This includes signs, posters, banners, and other promotional materials. By implementing this regulation, the bill seeks to formalize the oversight over the placement of written materials in public spaces, thereby ensuring that such displays are authorized and controlled.
While the bill's proponents may argue that it is essential for maintaining decorum and organization in public spaces, there could be concerns regarding the potential overreach of this regulation. Critics may question how this law could infringe upon free speech and the rights of individuals or groups who wish to express their viewpoints through outdoor signage. Additionally, the requirement for prior written approval could be seen as hinder economic activity and local expression, raising debates about balancing regulation with personal liberties.