HI HB137

Amends the definition of "drug" in Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 291E (operating a vehicle under the influence of intoxicants) to include any substance that can impair a person's ability to operate a vehicle safely when taken into the human body.

Removes the requirement that drugs must be listed in schedules I through IV of Chapter 329 to be prosecuted as OVUII violations.

Allows prosecution of OVUII offenses involving emerging drugs and substances not yet formally scheduled, such as synthetic drugs like "spice" and "bath salts," and unscheduled substances like kava and certain muscle relaxants.

Takes effect upon approval and does not affect penalties or proceedings that began before the effective date.