Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-Second State Legislature

Regular Session of 2003

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Transportation, Military Affairs and Government Operations, to which was referred S.B. No. 1051 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to clarify the permissible operation of electric personal assistive mobility devices (Segway).

Testimony in support of this measure was received from Segway. Testimony in opposition was received from the Department of Transportation (DOT).

This measure allows a Segway to be operated on the sidewalks and bicycle paths at speeds up to eight miles per hour. The operator must be sixteen years of age or older, unless the person is disabled. Specific requirements for the actual operation are set out to protect the operator, pedestrians, and traffic.

Your Committee believes that use of the new and innovative Segway is inevitable. Legislation is needed to regulate its operation before an accident happens. Your Committee finds that the regulations are reasonable and compliance is easy.

The objection of the DOT that sidewalks are too narrow for Segways is well taken. However, sidewalks and bikeways are safer than streets. It is reported that the United States Postal Service is utilizing Segways to deliver mail, and if this practice is expanded to Hawaii's Postal Service, then the clarification provided under measure is warranted.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Transportation, Military Affairs and Government Operations that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 1051 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to the Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs.