Bill > SB279

This bill amends Hawaii's drug laws to include fentanyl in the same legal classification as other serious dangerous drugs like methamphetamine, heroin, morphine, and cocaine. Specifically, the bill modifies two sections of the Hawaii Revised Statutes (712-1241 and 712-1242) to add fentanyl to the list of drugs that trigger specific possession and distribution penalties. Under the new provisions, possessing one ounce or more of fentanyl would be considered promoting a dangerous drug in the first degree, and possessing one-eighth ounce or more would constitute promoting a dangerous drug in the second degree. The bill maintains existing penalties and weight thresholds but explicitly includes fentanyl in these categories, likely in response to the ongoing opioid crisis and the increasing prevalence of fentanyl in illegal drug markets. The legislation does not affect legal proceedings or penalties that were initiated before its effective date, and it will take effect immediately upon approval. This change aims to provide law enforcement and the judicial system with clearer guidelines for prosecuting fentanyl-related offenses.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=279&year=2026