HI SB345

Raises the minimum age restriction for passengers riding in the bed of a pickup truck from twelve to under eighteen years old, with limited exceptions for emergencies and authorized parades or exhibitions.

Requires pickup trucks carrying passengers in the bed to have securely attached side racks and a closed tailgate, and passengers must be seated on the floor without attempting to control cargo.

Establishes that passengers in the bed of a pickup truck are deemed to have assumed the risk of injury or death from accidents occurring while the vehicle is in operation.

Maintains existing exemptions for business operations subject to state agency jurisdiction and supervision.

Establishes fines of $25 for general violations and $50 for violations involving passengers under eighteen years of age.