SENATE OKS HIGHER PENALTIES FOR DRUG PUSHERS

HONOLULU (AP) -- Drug dealers caught plying their illegal trade where
children congregate would face serious prison time under a bill approved
Monday by the state Senate.

The House earlier approved the bill making it a Class C felony for pushing
illegal drugs in public parks, expanding the current law that makes selling
drugs at or near a school a felony.

The Senate's measure adds not only parks but also shopping malls, theaters,
arcades, libraries, church grounds, bowling alleys and beaches to the
protected areas.

A first-time offender could face up to five years in prison under the bill.

A repeat offender would face up to 10 years prison with a mandatory minimum
term of two years.

Children and adolescents are very easily influenced by their peers and
elders, and decreasing a child's exposure to drugs may lower the chance
they'll use drugs, said the Senate Judiciary Committee in recommending
approval of the bill.

The bill goes back to the House which can either accept the Senate's changes
or negotiate a final version.