H.B. 874 Summary

• Establishes "urine free zones" in five categories of public places: public playgrounds and equipment, public bus stops, public park and ride facilities, public parking lots, and public parking garages including stairwells.

• Creates a new criminal offense of intentionally urinating or defecating in a designated urine free zone, enforced through Chapter 711 of Hawaii Revised Statutes.

• Establishes graduated fines for violations: up to $500 for first offense, up to $1,000 for second offense, and up to $2,000 for third or subsequent offenses.

• Allows offenders to complete a court-approved drug, alcohol, or mental health treatment program in lieu of paying fines, at the discretion of the sentencing authority.

• Takes effect upon approval and aims to protect public health and maintain public order by reducing exposure to human waste in high-traffic public areas.