Honolulu is considering a bill that could impose fines of up to $2,000 and up to 30 days in jail for unauthorized possession of shopping carts. (Credit: Getty Images)
\n\nHONOLULU – A Honolulu City Council proposal would make it illegal to possess a shopping cart away from a retailer's premises without authorization, with violators facing fines of up to $2,000, as many as 30 days in jail and confiscation of the cart.
\n\nBill 53, introduced by Council Chair Tommy Waters, passed its first reading Aug. 12. Supporters, including retailers and law enforcement officials, say the measure would address stolen and abandoned carts that can block sidewalks, bus stops and waterways.
\n\n"Shopping carts can end up in public spaces for a variety of reasons, but when they are left behind, they can create safety hazards by obstructing sidewalks and clogging our streams and impose unnecessary costs on grocery stores and local retailers," Waters said in a statement.
\n\nThe police department also argues that the bill would close what it sees as a gap in enforcement. While officers regularly recover shopping carts, they currently have limited ability to penalize people who possess them unless a retailer is willing to pursue a theft…
Original source: https://www.livenowfox.com/money
