In response to a concerning increase in traffic fatalities, Governor Josh Green signed an executive order on September 18, 2025, aimed at improving road safety across the state. The Governor's Office reported that the order introduces uniform regulations for electric bicycles (e-bikes), implements safety education initiatives targeting high-risk drivers, and provides additional resources to state and county law enforcement agencies. The core focus is to amplify the enforcement of existing traffic laws to prevent accidents and save lives.
This move comes as Hawaii faces a critical situation regarding road safety. According to Big Island Video News, preliminary data indicates that a significant 70% of traffic fatalities in 2025 involve vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. Governor Green emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that even one death due to a crash is unacceptable.
The executive order also outlines specific actions to address these issues. One key aspect is the establishment of uniform regulations for e-bikes. As e-bike usage grows, the need for clear guidelines to ensure safety for both riders and other road users becomes more critical. Additionally, the order promotes safety education as a corrective measure for drivers identified as high-risk. This approach emphasizes prevention and behavioral changes to mitigate the factors that contribute to accidents. The order also allocates support to state and county law enforcement agencies. Such support may include additional funding for traffic enforcement, training programs, and implementation of new technologies to improve road safety.
For Hawaii's entrepreneurs, this executive order could potentially impact the tourism and transportation sectors. Companies involved in e-bike rentals or tours may need to adjust to the new regulations. Furthermore, businesses providing transportation services may experience increased scrutiny and enforcement. Ultimately, the order is a call to action to promote responsible behavior and ensure that Hawaii can keep pace with new technologies on the road, striving to make the state's roadways safer for all users.
