Honolulu considers fines and jail for unauthorized shopping cart use

The Honolulu City Council is considering Bill 53, a proposal that would criminalize the unauthorized possession of shopping carts outside of retail premises. If passed, violators could face fines of up to $2,000, up to 30 days in jail, and the confiscation of the carts.

Council Chair Tommy Waters and local law enforcement support the measure, arguing that abandoned carts create safety hazards by obstructing sidewalks, bus stops, and waterways, while also imposing costs on retailers. Police officials noted that current enforcement is limited because officers often cannot penalize individuals unless a retailer pursues a theft case.

Critics of the bill argue that the regulation will disproportionately impact the homeless population, who frequently rely on shopping carts to transport their personal belongings.