HRS §702-213
When absolute liability makes a crime a minor violation
This section explains that if a law outside this code makes someone liable without needing to prove intent, and they are convicted, the offense is treated as a minor violation. But if the prosecution can prove the person acted negligently, the offense can be charged as a more serious crime with normal penalties.
everyone
The statute, as written — Effect of absolute liability in reducing grade of offense to violation
Notwithstanding any other provisions of existing law and unless a subsequent statute otherwise provides: (1) When absolute liability is imposed with respect to any element of an offense defined by a statute other than this Code and a conviction is based upon such liability, the offense constitutes a violation except as provided in section 702-212(2); and (2) Although absolute liability is imposed by law with respect to one or more of the elements of an offense defined by a statute other than this Code, the culpable commission of the offense may be charged and proved, in which event negligence with respect to such elements constitutes a sufficient state of mind and the classification of the offense and the sentence that may be imposed therefor upon conviction are determined by section 701-107 and chapter 706.
Sections this one refers to
LawTrove is not legal advice. The summary above is a computer-generated restatement — the authoritative text is the official version linked above.