No, vaping with minors in a vehicle is prohibited under Hawaii’s 2023 Act 106, which amended HRS § 328J-11 to ban smoking or vaping in cars when a child under 18 is present. Violations incur fines up to $100, enforceable by law enforcement or child protective services. Local health departments, including the Hawaii State Department of Health’s Tobacco Prevention and Control Program, actively monitor compliance.
Key Regulations for Vaping in a Car with Kids in Hawaii
- Child Presence Ban: HRS § 328J-11 explicitly prohibits vaping or smoking in any enclosed vehicle when a minor under 18 is aboard, effective January 1, 2024.
- Enforcement Authority: Police officers and designated health officials may issue citations, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses (up to $200 for second violations).
- Local Oversight: The Hawaii Tobacco Quitline collaborates with county agencies to educate drivers, aligning with the 2026 Healthy Hawaii Initiative targets for reducing youth exposure to aerosolized nicotine.
Non-compliance risks secondary penalties under Hawaii’s Child Protective Services statutes, where habitual violations may trigger mandatory counseling or community service. Employers operating fleet vehicles must display signage per HAR § 11-20-45 to ensure driver awareness.