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HI HB1550

Bill

Status

Engrossed

3/10/2026

Primary Sponsor

David Tarnas

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Expands the exemption of drug checking tools from Hawaii's definition of "drug paraphernalia" under the Uniform Controlled Substances Act to include chemical reagents and spectrometers, in addition to fentanyl test strips previously exempted in 2023.

  • Defines exempt testing products as those used to determine whether controlled substances contain chemicals, toxic substances, or hazardous compounds in quantities that can cause physical harm or death.

  • Cites research from the Harm Reduction Journal and Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction supporting drug checking services' effectiveness in reducing overdose risk and improving public health outcomes.

  • References illicit drugs in Hawaii containing unspecified quantities of fentanyl, medetomidine, xylazine, and other substances as justification for expanded testing access.

  • Effective date set for July 1, 3000 (placeholder date indicating further legislative action needed).

Legislative Description

Relating To Health.

Uniform Controlled Substances Act

Last Action

Referred to HHS, JDC.

3/12/2026

Committee Referrals

Health and Human Services3/12/2026
Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs2/18/2026
Health1/26/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available