HI SB498

Establishes a shipping container inspection program to randomly inspect containers arriving in Honolulu for illegal fireworks and explosives, beginning no later than October 1, 2023, using explosive-sniffing dogs and prioritizing high-risk containers.

Creates a shipping container inspection program special fund to collect $1 per shipping container fee (beginning July 1, 2023) and legislative appropriations to support the program's operation.

Amends the definitions of "aerial device" and "fireworks" in Hawaii law to align with federal Department of Transportation regulations and expand coverage of prohibited fireworks devices.

Requires the Department of Public Safety (or Department of Law Enforcement after December 31, 2023) to submit reports to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2024 and 2025 regular sessions on program implementation, costs, and recommendations.

Appropriates an unspecified amount from general revenues for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 to establish and administer the program, including purchase and care of at least two explosive-sniffing dogs.