Bill > SR151

This resolution urges the Hawaii Department of Transportation to establish a working group focused on lowering the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit from 0.08 to 0.05 grams per 100 milliliters of blood, with the primary goal of improving road safety and reducing alcohol-related traffic fatalities. The proposed working group would include representatives from various state offices, such as the Public Defender, Prosecuting Attorneys from different counties, and additional invited participants from organizations like the National Transportation Safety Board and Hawaii Alcohol Policy Alliance. The working group's responsibilities would include examining data on alcohol-related fatalities and injuries, analyzing potential economic impacts on alcohol and food industries, exploring strategies to mitigate potential revenue losses for bars and restaurants, and developing recommendations for public awareness and phased implementation of the lower BAC limit. The resolution highlights the significant problem of drunk driving in the United States, where approximately 37 people die daily in alcohol-related crashes, and notes that over 100 countries have already adopted a 0.05 BAC limit. The working group would be required to submit a comprehensive report to the Legislature before the 2026 Regular Session, including findings, recommendations, and potential legislative proposals.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SR&billnumber=151&year=2025