HI SB640

Creates new offense of resisting arrest in the first degree as a class C felony for intentionally preventing law enforcement from effecting an arrest by removing or attempting to remove a firearm from an officer's person.

Renames existing resisting arrest offense to "resisting arrest in the second degree" and maintains it as a misdemeanor covering physical force or threats or other means creating substantial risk of bodily injury.

Defines "firearm" in the new first-degree offense using the same definition as section 134-1 of Hawaii Revised Statutes.

Does not affect rights, duties, penalties, or proceedings that began before the Act's effective date.

Takes effect upon approval.