STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3054

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: S.B. No. 2923

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2022

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Ways and Means, to which was referred S.B. No. 2923 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO FIREWORKS,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose and intent of this measure is to increase from $2,000 to $5,000 the maximum fine for certain fireworks violations.

Your Committee received written comments in support of this measure from the Hawaii State Fire Council, Honolulu Fire Department, Chair of the Pearl City Neighborhood Board, Hawaii Reef and Ocean Coalition, and five individuals.

Your Committee received written comments in opposition to this measure from one individual.

Your Committee finds that the illegal use of aerial fireworks continues to annoy residents, traumatize pets, and create dangerous conditions for the entire community. Your Committee also finds that a strong deterrent is necessary to significantly reduce this activity. Your Committee believes that increasing fines associated with certain uses of illegal fireworks may provide an appropriate deterrent.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Ways and Means that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 2923 and recommends that it pass Third Reading.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Ways and Means,

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DONOVAN M. DELA CRUZ, Chair