If enacted, the bill will amend Section 46-1.5 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, which outlines the powers and limitations of counties. This change will enable local governments to establish ordinances that directly regulate the quantity of rental cars, which, in turn, could help decrease traffic congestion and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The legislature views this regulation as a crucial step toward helping Hawaii meet its broader environmental objectives.
Summary
House Bill 193 seeks to empower the counties in Hawaii to regulate the number of rental motor vehicles operating within their jurisdictions. The bill is rooted in Hawaii's commitment to reducing emissions and achieving clean energy goals. Given that transportation is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, this legislation aims to address the high number of rental vehicles—specifically over twenty thousand on Maui—that the legislature believes undermine the state's efforts to mitigate climate change and pollution.
Contention
While proponents of the bill argue it is essential for environmental protection and public health by curbing emissions, there might be concerns about how local regulations could impact rental car businesses economically. The ability of counties to impose such regulations raises questions about uniformity and potential conflicts with tourist demands, as rental cars are integral to visitor mobility in Hawaii. Local stakeholders may have differing views on the balance between environmental needs and business interests, which could lead to heated discussions during subsequent legislative hearings.