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 personnel trained to distinguish legal from illegal fireworks.

Creates a shipping container inspection program special fund to receive a $1 fee assessed by the Department of Transportation on each shipping container arriving in the State, starting July 1, 2023, with funds used to support and administer the inspection program.

Amends definitions of "aerial device" and "fireworks" in state law to reference United Nations classifications UN0336 and UN0337 and align with federal Department of Transportation regulations in Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations.

Requires the Department of Public Safety (or Department of Law Enforcement after December 31, 2023) to submit implementation reports to the legislature no later than 20 days prior to the 2024 and 2025 regular sessions, including costs, estimates, and recommendations.

Appropriates funds for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 to establish and operate the inspection program, including purchase and care of at least two explosive-sniffing dogs, with the Act taking effect July 1, 2050 (except Section 5 effective July 1, 2023).