HB 2337 Summary

• Expands the definition of "drug" in Hawaii's operating under the influence statute to include any substance that can impair a person's ability to operate a vehicle safely, not just controlled substances listed in schedules I-IV of chapter 329.

• Defines "substance" as any plant, medication, poison, natural or synthetic chemical, or combination thereof, specifically including central nervous system depressants and stimulants, hallucinogens, dissociative anesthetics, narcotic analgesics, inhalants, and cannabis.

• Adds new definition of "substance abuse" as the use or misuse of alcohol, any drug on schedules I-IV, or any substance deemed deleterious or detrimental to the user, others, or society.

• Addresses the inability to prosecute drivers impaired by unscheduled drugs (such as kava and certain muscle relaxants) and emerging synthetic drugs like "spice" and "bath salts" that evade the scheduling process.

• Takes effect upon approval and does not affect rights, duties, or proceedings that existed before the effective date.