The Hawaii Senate Majority has announced a bill that essentially bans pit bulls has been introduced, but has yet to be scheduled for a hearing in the Judiciary Committee. 

“Yesterday, a measure was introduced that would make it a misdemeanor to own, possess, or sell pit bulls in the State of Hawaii,” according to the Hawaii Senate Majority Web site.

The measure follows on the heels of two recent pit bull attacks this year. Just yesterday, a woman was taken to the hospital for injuries she suffered from an alleged attack by two pit bulls in Kapolei. Two weeks ago, a police detective reported an attack from a 70 pound pit bull that was released by its owner during an altercation in Kapahulu.

Sen. President Colleen Hanabusa, who introduced ‘SB 79 Relating to Dogs’ “by request”, admits she does not believe this will be a bill with a high priority this session. SB 79 has been referred to the Judiciary Committee, chaired by Sen. Brian T. Taniguchi, and has yet to be scheduled.

While opponents of the bill understand the intent of this bill, they say it will set a dangerous precedent. They also say that pit bulls are not the vicious attack dogs they are made out to be but instead, suffer from a bad reputation.  

Other options could include looking at tougher leash laws. 

— Find out more:
Hawaii Senate Majority: www.hawaiisenatemajority.com