Bill limits campaign season signage

“I think people will thank us for this.”

Legislation would restrict the size and the number of signs By Richard Borreca [e-mail] Hawaii's roadways could become less cluttered during the fall election season if the Legislature approves ... via Honolulu Star-Bulletin

[An Observer]

Unconstitutional and unwise and elitist. You can't and shouldn't regulate a sign based on content. A law aimed at political signs must apply to all signs. Someday someone may want to post a large sign "HELP STOP MY FORECLOSURE". Is a pro-choice or pro-life sign covered? Or "Buy Turtle Bay", "Super Ferry Aole"? A working man running for office may not be able to afford ad on TV, radio or newspapers. His only means or reaching a mass audience are standing on the roadside or planting a sign somewhere. The work of our professional politicians is so low except when it comes to raising campaign funds. Outdoor Circle, do not silence the voice of the underdog.

[Outdoor Circle sign guy]

I understand the concern of "An Observer" but some of his statements are not accurate.

This legislation applies to all signs of all types on residential property, but will have its strongest impact on campaign signs. Simply put the law will eliminate large campaign banners as well as prevent property at high traffic locations from being overrun with dozens of campaign signs.

Court across the country have consistently upheld the right of communities to protect their neighborhoods from eyesores created by large signs or too many signs.

The courts have already affirmed in many other communities the restrictions found in Hawaii's legislation. The proposed law allows our citizens to excercise their first amendment rights while protecting the community from being overrun by signs.

The Outdoor Circle receives a flood of complaints each election from residents who want change. In a scientific poll, 76 percent of the residents said they want the legislature to make this type of change.

Hawaii should be proud that its legislature recognizes the value of the beauty of Hawaii and is willing to protect it.