Proposed bill to make smoking on Waikiki beach illegal

Source:  Pacific Business News

Hawaii lawmakers will consider a bill Tuesday that would prohibit lighting up cigarettes on world-famous Waikiki Beach.

State law already prohibits smoking in all enclosed and partially enclosed workplaces and public places, including restaurants and bars.

The law has been opposed by some bar and restaurant owners who say it has hurt business, although anti-tobacco groups say it has had the opposite effect.

House Bill 1509 would prohibit smoking on the beaches of Waikiki from the shore break to the sidewalk of private property lines.

The bill aims to protect Waikiki Beach from litter such as cigarette butts, making it more attractive to tourists. Smoking would still be allowed on sidewalks near the beach.