HI HB2485

Establishes a shipping container inspection program under the Department of Public Safety, Sheriff Division, to randomly inspect incoming cargo containers for illegal fireworks and explosives using explosive-sniffing dogs, with program implementation beginning no later than October 1, 2016.

Authorizes the Department of Public Safety, Sheriff Division, to inspect shipping containers at commercial harbors and work sites to detect and confiscate materials threatening life or property, allowing collaboration with federal, state, and county agencies.

Requires the Department of Transportation to assess a fee of $1 per shipping container beginning July 1, 2016, increasing to $2 per container beginning July 1, 2017, with all fees deposited into a new shipping container inspection program special fund.

Increases penalties for fireworks control law violations from a maximum fine of $2,000 to $5,000 per violation.

Appropriates $250,000 from general revenues for fiscal year 2016-2017 to establish the special fund, with an additional $250,000 appropriated from the special fund for program costs including purchase and care of at least two explosive-sniffing dogs.