The state of Hawai'i, known for its natural beauty and paradisiacal beaches, could be about to make history in the United States. Recently, they have proposed a measure that will change traffic rules for trucks and heavy vehicles, imposing a maximum speed of 50 mi. (80 km). This proposal, known as HB229, is creating an intense debate among the sectors involved.
HB229, introduced in February 2025, seeks to reduce the speed of vehicles with three or more axles or that weigh more than 22,046 lbs. (10,000 kg), excluding buses. This new regulation would mainly affect state and interstate highways, even if the general limit on those roads is higher. The main goal of this measure is to increase road safety and decrease accidents on complex highways.
Why is this law being proposed?
The purpose of HB229 is very clear: to protect drivers and reduce the number of accidents caused by heavy vehicles traveling at high speeds. Hawai'i has many mountainous roads, dangerous stretches, and a high volume of tourist traffic, which makes a speed difference between vehicles potentially fatal.
This bill aims to reduce the severity and frequency of accidents, especially on high-risk roads. Supporters of the law argue that the measure is essential to save lives on Hawaiian roads. However, not everyone agrees with this initiative.
The transport sector opposes
Truckers and heavy vehicle associations have expressed their concern about this proposal. They fear that the new measure will lengthen delivery times and considerably increase logistics costs on the islands. In addition, they argue that this restriction could cause congestion, since trucks would travel at a much lower speed than other vehicles.
While the goal of HB229 is to improve road safety, some truckers believe that its side effects could be negative for the industry. In particular, the increase in delivery times could affect the local economy and cause inconvenience for truck drivers.
Support for the measure: a step toward safety
Meanwhile, some lawmakers and road safety associations have backed the measure. They point out that the speed difference between trucks and other vehicles can cause fatal accidents, especially on complicated roads with high traffic volume. These supporters state that HB229 is necessary to prevent tragedies and improve road safety in Hawai'i.
The proposal has caused mixed opinions, but driver safety remains the main priority. The law seeks to balance the interests of truckers with the needs of road safety in an environment as unique as Hawai'i.
When will the law be enforced?
Although HB229 is still under discussion, the legislation could go into effect in the second half of 2025. If approved, Hawai'i would be one of the first states to impose an exclusive speed restriction for trucks. In addition, the measure could serve as a model for other states with similar conditions.
Even though the future of this proposal is still undecided, the debate about road safety and traffic regulation in Hawai'i remains alive. As the transport industry and safety authorities face opposing opinions, the most paradisiacal state in the U.S. once again becomes the center of the debate on road safety.