HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-01-29 Letter to Henry J.C. Aquino and Troy N. Hashimoto HB 1676, Relating to Highway Safety (2) Roy Takemoto
co.• Managing Director
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Harry Kim •:�I� •d„�'/. :*
Alaror
+° Barbara J. Kossow
�Tt of.N'� ` Deputy Managing Director
County of Hawaii
Office of the Mayor
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January 29, 2020
Representative Henry J.C. Aquino, Chair
Representative Troy N. Hashimoto, Vice Chair
Committee on Transportation
Dear Chair Aquino, Vice Chair Hashimoto, and Committee Members:
RE: HB 1676, Relating to Highway Safety
Thank you for hearing HB 1676. I testify in support of this measure.
As our populations grow, so does traffic, leading to more traffic congestion and
greater driver frustration. Frustration, in turn, can lead to more carelessness or more
risk taking, such as pushing the envelope on running red lights to save a few precious
seconds.
There are jurisdictions on the mainland and around the world where traffic laws
are ignored and driving is chaotic. Though some might think that Hawaii has already
achieved that state, in truth we have managed to retain some respect for law, even
traffic laws, and we need to do what we can to assure that our standards do not
deteriorate, and perhaps even move up a notch or two.
The preamble to HB 1676 is an excellent summary of our history with red-light
enforcement, and why we should authorize the counties to try pilot programs. It may be
necessary to prove to the public that such programs can be administered fairly and are
in the best interest of the traveler—whether driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian. HB 1676 will
provide that opportunity for those counties that wish to participate.
I ask for your favorable action on HB 1676.
Respectfully Submitted,
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Harry Kim
MAYOR
County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.