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Honolulu bill could fine, jail homeless residents over shopping cart use
Supporters say the measure would curb stolen and abandoned carts that block sidewalks and waterways, while critics warn it could punish unsheltered residents.
- The Honolulu City Council advanced a proposal on August 12 making it illegal to possess shopping carts away from retail premises without authorization, with violators facing fines of up to $2,000, confiscation, and up to 30 days in jail.
- Council Chair Tommy Waters stated abandoned carts create safety hazards by "obstructing sidewalks and clogging our streams," citing costs borne by retailers and enforcement challenges for police.
- Police officials argue the measure closes an enforcement gap, as officers currently lack authority to penalize possession unless retailers pursue theft cases; Okamoto noted retailers lack resources to manage cart collection.
- Critics warn the bill disproportionately affects people experiencing homelessness who rely on carts for belongings; Jonathan Huynh testified the proposal amounts to "putting people in jail just for being poor."
- With more than 2,300 people living unsheltered on Oahu this year according to the latest Point-in-Time count, the measure faces further consideration as the Council weighs cart management against potential homelessness impacts.
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