Hawaii House Bill HB1513

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Report Pass: 2/17/23
• Refer: 2/17/23

Caption

Relating To Unattended Animals In Motor Vehicles.

Impact

The bill proposes amendments to existing law, specifically Hawaii Revised Statutes, to provide liability limitations for individuals who rescue animals in peril. If a person reasonably believes an unattended animal is in imminent danger, they can break into a vehicle to rescue the animal without facing civil liability for damages caused during the rescue, provided their actions are deemed reasonable and in good faith. The affirmation of these protections aims to foster quick action from the public in emergencies.

Summary

House Bill 1513 aims to protect animals left unattended in motor vehicles from extreme heat conditions by establishing a Good Samaritan law in Hawaii. Each year, many pets die when left in parked vehicles during hot weather. The bill recognizes the need to encourage bystanders to help animals in distress without the fear of legal repercussions, as temperatures inside vehicles can rise dangerously within minutes, posing significant health risks to pets.

Contention

Despite the supportive framework of this bill, discussions might arise around the parameters of 'reasonable' actions and the potential for abuse of these protections. There may be concerns regarding the extent of damage that can be inflicted during an animal rescue and how to prevent unnecessary interventions. Professionals such as police officers or firefighters are also given clear authority to intervene, yet the delineation between private citizen interventions and professional rescues must be carefully managed to balance animal safety and property rights.