House of Reps Passes Abandoned Vehicle Bill

Abandoned vehicles across the Big Island are always an eyesore, but help may be on the way.

HB 2442, which requires counties to dispose of all abandoned vehicles within 10 business days of being reported, has passed Third Reading in the House of Representatives and moves on to the Senate for its consideration. Introduced by Rep. Cedric Asuega Gates (Waiʻanae, Mākaha, Mākua, Māʻili), the measure will improve the beautification of communities as well as eliminate safety risks and environmental hazards.

“This measure requiring the counties to deal with these safety and environmental hazards in a timely manner is a step towards not only making the ʻāina a more beautiful place, but a safer place to live as well,” said Rep. Gates.

Rep. Gates introduced the bill in reaction to the limited resources and lack of a mandate, causing many junked cars to remain on public roads and in parks.

In the future, Rep. Gates would also like to see a state sponsored junk yard where the public can deliver their unwanted vehicles and receive money for the scrap value of any material exchanged.

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