STAND. COM. REP. NO. 116

 

Honolulu, Hawaii

                   

 

RE:     S.B. No. 641

 

 

 

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirtieth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2019

State of Hawaii

 

Sir:

 

     Your Committee on Transportation, to which was referred S.B. No. 641 entitled:

 

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO INTOXICANTS,"

 

begs leave to report as follows:

 

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to add the definition of "substance abuse" and amend the definitions of "drug" and "substance" for purposes of violations due to operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant.

 

     Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Transportation, County of Hawaii Police Department, County of Hawaii Office of the Prosecuting Attorney, County of Maui Department of the Prosecuting Attorney, Honolulu Police Department, Highway Strategic Highway Safety Plan, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving Hawaii.  Your Committee received testimony in opposition to this measure from one individual.

 

     Your Committee finds that the existing definition of a drug under the Uniform Controlled Substance Act limits law enforcement and prosecutors from keeping roads safe from impaired drivers as it does not encompass many substances that are being abused by individuals.  Because those substances do fall under the definition of a drug in existing law, those abusing the substances are free to drive while impaired on Hawaii's roads.  It is difficult for laws to catch up with the constant changing chemicals and newly developed drugs, thereby causing problems for law enforcement to keep Hawaii's roads safe.  This measure would provide clarity with respect to how substance abuse and drugs are defined in law, ensuring safety for residents and visitors of Hawaii.

 

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Transportation that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 641 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to your Committee on Judiciary.

 

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Transportation,

 

 

 

________________________________

LORRAINE R. INOUYE, Chair