Hawaii House Bill HCR99

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 3/31/22
• Refer: 3/31/22
• Report Pass: 4/7/22
• Engrossed: 4/7/22
• Refer: 4/12/22

Caption

Urging The Honolulu City Council To Review Its Ordinance On Chickens, Investigate The Ordinance's Role In Contributing To The Growing Population Of Feral Chickens, And Take Action To Reduce The Growing Problem Of Feral Chickens.

Impact

The resolution aims to compel the Honolulu City Council to investigate how existing laws might be contributing to the rampant proliferation of feral chickens. It suggests that the ordinance permitting households to own up to two chickens may inadvertently encourage the increase in feral populations. By emphasizing the need for a review, HCR99 seeks to initiate discussions about amending these laws to better manage and possibly reduce the feral chicken problem in the region, which has become a pressing concern for many residents.

Summary

HCR99 is a House Concurrent Resolution urging the Honolulu City Council to reassess its ordinance regarding the possession of chickens. This legislative measure emphasizes the ongoing issue of feral chickens, which have increasingly become a nuisance in urban and suburban areas of the City and County of Honolulu. The resolution points to concerns from residents regarding noise disturbances caused by the loud crowing of these feral birds, along with their potential to damage personal property, public spaces, and crops. The bill highlights both the social and economic implications of the feral chicken population on residents and property owners.

Contention

While proponents of HCR99 argue for the necessity of addressing the feral chicken issue due to its public safety implications, including unsanitary conditions and traffic obstructions, opponents may argue that tighter regulations could infringe on personal freedoms related to chicken ownership. The bill illustrates the delicate balance between personal liberties in owning pets and the community-wide impacts of those ownership decisions. Discussions around HCR99 are likely to reflect varying perspectives on how best to manage community concerns while respecting individual rights.