State senators approved a proposal yesterday that would allow the use of the Segway high-tech scooter on public pathways such as sidewalks and bike paths. High-tech scooter bill
faces full Senate vote
By B.J. Reyes
Associated Press
The measure, approved by the Senate Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee by a 5-1 vote, sets a maximum speed for the Segway at 8 mph and requires that operators be at least 16 years old.
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Sen. Suzanne Chun Oakland, the committee's vice chairwoman, voted against the bill, citing concerns raised by opponents that the vehicles pose safety hazards.
"It's a safety issue in our communities, especially with elders," said Chun Oakland (D, Kalihi-Liliha). "Their safety might be jeopardized."
Opponents, who include the Department of Transportation, argue that the devices are too large and move too fast for use on sidewalks.
The Segway, an upright battery-operated, two-wheeled mobile device resembling a cross between a hand lawnmower and a "Razor" scooter, is controlled by body movements with the help of tiny computers and balance-sensing gyroscopes.
Makers have touted the Segway - which sells online for about $5,000 - as a transportation device that can reduce automobile traffic and assist seniors and the handicapped in getting around.
It has been tested across the country by postal workers, police officers and meter readers. Thirty-three states and Washington, D.C., have passed laws regulating the devices.
In Hawaii a commercial version of the Segway is being used by security staff at the Ko Olina Resort.
Although he supported the measure, Sen. Bob Hogue (R, Kaneohe-Kailua) said he had some concerns about the use of Segways on narrow paths or unimproved roads.
The bill now faces a vote by the full Senate.
A companion measure already was tabled by the House Judiciary Committee, citing safety concerns raised by opponents.
