Act 261
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Both Chambers
- Passed Other Chamber
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This Act addresses communication challenges between law enforcement and deaf drivers in Hawaii. It requires the Department of Finance to add a designation to a motor vehicle's registration when the owner is deaf, utilizing either the international symbol for deafness or a numerical code. This designation will alert law enforcement officers during electronic vehicle registration checks, aiming to prevent miscommunication and potential safety issues during traffic stops.
Key provisions
- Requires the Department of Finance to add a designation to vehicle registrations for deaf owners.
- The designation can be the international symbol for deafness or a numerical code.
- Certification of deafness must be provided by a qualified otolaryngologist or audiologist.
- The designation alerts law enforcement officers during electronic vehicle registration checks.
- The Act takes effect on January 1, 2027.
- Defines ‘deaf’ based on hearing loss thresholds (41 dB or worse in the 500-2000 Hz range).
- Restricts access to the deafness designation, as required by law.
- Addresses the dangers of traffic stops for deaf drivers due to communication barriers.
Who is affected
- Deaf drivers
- Law enforcement officers
- Motor vehicle owners
- The Department of Finance
- Audiologists and Otolaryngologists
Notable changes
Bill text
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Document of record
- Version
- GM1364
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