Relating To The Department Of Land And Natural Resources.
The bill amends Section 188-70 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to significantly increase fines for violations of aquarium fishing regulations. For instance, a first offense would incur a fine of no less than $100, which escalates for repeat offenses. Notably, violating regulations can now lead to class C felony charges, with fines starting at $1,000 and a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 days imprisonment without the possibility of parole for certain severe violations. This measure aims to deter illegal aquarium fishing practices and safeguard aquatic life.
Senate Bill 2925 aims to increase penalties for violations related to aquarium fishing in Hawaii. This legislative move follows a November 2020 ruling by the environmental court of the first circuit that determined the issuance of aquarium fishing permits is subject to environmental review under the Hawaii Environmental Policy Act. As a result, the Department of Land and Natural Resources has halted the approval or renewal of aquarium fishing licenses without a complete environmental impact statement, recognizing the need to protect marine resources in Hawaii's nearshore waters.
While the bill is primarily aimed at protecting Hawaii's fragile marine ecosystems, some stakeholders may argue that increasing fines could overly penalize non-commercial fish collectors who inadvertently violate regulations. The discussions surrounding the legislation reflect a broader tension between conservation efforts and the rights of local fishers. There may be concern that enhanced penalties could disproportionately affect small-scale or non-commercial collectors who rely on aquarium fish for supplemental income or personal use, prompting calls for a more nuanced approach to regulation.