Read the full stored bill text
SB1025
THE SENATE
S.B. NO.
1025
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2025
STATE OF HAWAII
A BILL FOR AN ACT
relating
to transportation
.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
����
SECTION 1.
�
The
legislature finds that public transportation serves as an essential resource
for mobility, employment, education, healthcare, and community engagement,
benefiting residents and visitors alike.
�
The inclusion of companion animals in public transportation can enhance
accessibility, reduce barriers for pet owners in need, and promote the humane
treatment of animals.
�
A survey of
underserved areas conducted by the Hawaii Humane Society revealed that large
portion of pet owners identified transportation limitations as a significant
barrier to accessing veterinary care, pet-friendly housing, and other essential
services.
����
The legislature further finds that
comparable policies in metropolitan areas such as Boston, New York City, and
Washington, D.C., have demonstrated that accommodating pets on public
transportation is feasible with proper limitations and oversight to ensure the
safety and comfort of all riders.
����
Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to allow
service animals and non-service pet animals
on mass transit
systems in the State.
����
SECTION 2.
�
Chapter 51, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section
to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
����
"
�51-
�
Animals
on mass transit.
�
(a)
�
Service animals, as defined by the Americans
with Disabilities Act, shall be allowed on any mass transit vehicle at all
times.
����
(b)
�
Non-service pet animals shall be allowed:
����
(1)
�
During peak hours between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00
a.m. and between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.; provided that non-service
pet animals shall be secured in an enclosed carrier that fits on the passenger's
lap or under the seat without obstructing the aisles; and
����
(2)
�
During
off-peak hours; provided that larger dogs shall be securely leashed and not
occupy seats or impede passenger movement.
����
(c)
�
Pet animal owners shall ensure their pet animals
are well-behaved, properly leashed or contained, and do not cause a disturbance
or pose a risk to passengers.
����
(d)
�
Any pet animal exhibiting aggressive or
disruptive behavior shall result in the owner being asked to disembark.
����
(e)
�
Transit personnel shall retain the authority
to restrict pet animal access during emergencies, overcrowding, or other safety
concerns.
����
(f)
�
Pet animal owners shall assume liability for
any damage or injury caused by their animal while using public transportation.
����
(g)
�
For the purposes of this section, "pet animal" shall have the
same meaning as defined in section 711-1100.
"
����
SECTION 3.
�
New statutory material is underscored.
����
SECTION 4.
�
This Act shall take effect upon its approval.
INTRODUCED BY:
_____________________________
Report Title:
Mass
Transit; Service Animals; Non-Service Pet Animals
Description:
Allows
service and non-service pet animals on mass transit vehicles under certain
conditions.
The summary description
of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is
not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.