HB941 would create a new section in Hawaii’s traffic code governing when pedestrians may cross roadways outside of marked crosswalks without being cited or otherwise penalized. The bill says a pedestrian cannot be stopped, fined, or penalized for crossing contrary to specified pedestrian-crossing statutes unless a reasonably careful pedestrian would know the crossing would create a collision risk with a moving vehicle or would cause a vehicle to slow or stop. This protection applies only when the pedestrian is more than 200 feet from a marked crosswalk.
The measure also preserves existing duties of care. It expressly states that pedestrians still must use due care for their own safety and the safety of others, and drivers still must exercise due care for pedestrians in the roadway. The bill would take effect upon approval and would apply prospectively only, leaving prior rights, penalties, and proceedings unchanged.
Impact
HB941 would amend Chapter 291C of the Hawaii Revised Statutes by adding a new pedestrian-crossing provision that limits enforcement of certain crosswalk-related offenses in areas more than 200 feet from a marked crosswalk. It would affect both pedestrians and law enforcement by narrowing when citations or other penalties may be imposed for crossing outside a crosswalk, while leaving the underlying duties of care for pedestrians and drivers intact. The bill would not retroactively alter completed penalties or pending proceedings.
Sentiment
The available context suggests the bill was treated cautiously rather than enthusiastically, with the House Transportation committee recommending that the measure be deferred. No vote record or committee transcript is provided, so there is no evidence of broad support or organized opposition in the materials supplied. The deferment indicates the proposal likely raised concerns or required further review before advancing.
Contention
The main point of contention appears to be the balance between pedestrian flexibility and roadway safety enforcement. Supporters would likely view the bill as reducing penalties for low-risk street crossing and recognizing practical pedestrian behavior, while opponents or cautious reviewers may worry that limiting enforcement could undermine crosswalk compliance or create confusion for drivers and police. The 200-foot threshold from a marked crosswalk and the exception for crossings that would cause a vehicle to slow or stop are likely the key operational issues.