Bill > HB387

This bill amends Hawaii's existing law on negligent injury in the first degree to expand the circumstances under which a person can be charged with this offense. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision that makes it an offense to cause bodily injury to another person while operating a vehicle negligently and under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Previously, the law only covered causing serious bodily injury or substantial bodily injury to a vulnerable user through negligent vehicle operation. The bill introduces this additional category of negligent injury, which broadens the legal consequences for drivers who cause harm while impaired. The new provision aims to enhance highway safety by creating stricter penalties for drivers who negligently operate a vehicle while intoxicated, even if the injury caused is not as severe as "serious" or "substantial" bodily injury. The bill will take effect immediately upon approval and does not impact any legal proceedings or penalties that occurred before its effective date.

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=387&year=2026