Hawaii Signs Into Law Unfair Exhaust Noise Penalty Bill

Hawaii Governor Josh Green signed into law SAN-opposed legislation (S.B. 2350) to reform the enforcement of its exhaust noise laws, which was amended to create enhanced penalties for repeat offenders. However, the underlying laws are fundamentally flawed. Similar legislative proposals have failed to be approved in prior years, including last year.  Currently, Hawaii prohibits mufflers that “noticeably increase the noise” and mandates that mufflers must be identical to their factory setting. The current law is unenforceable as it is vague, subjective, and unfair.

Hawaii must implement a fair testing procedure and decibel limit for vehicle owners accused of unreasonable exhaust noise violations. Other states have adopted a decibel limit of 95 decibels when tested under an SAE International procedure, which provides a fair and reasonable working system. This SAN-supported SAE test is conducted in a controlled environment using objective methodology. This solution offers Hawaii a clear standard with a proven record of success.

Thank you to those who voiced concerns with lawmakers about this effort.