Relating To The Protection Of Aquatic Mammals.
If enacted, HB901 would amend Chapter 142 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to explicitly prohibit the exhibition of captive cetaceans. Violators of this act would face fines of up to $10,000 for each offense. The bill reflects a broader trend seen in jurisdictions such as Maui and California, where similar measures have been put in place to safeguard the welfare of marine mammals. The passage of this bill would mark a progressive step in animal welfare legislation in Hawaii, potentially influencing how other states approach the issue of marine mammal captivity.
House Bill 901, also known as the 'Protecting Aquatic Mammals From Living in Pools or Restraints (PROTECT FLIPR): A Cetacean Display Ban Act', aims to prohibit the display of captive cetaceans, including dolphins, whales, and porpoises, in the State of Hawaii. The bill stems from growing recognition of the intelligence and social structures of these species, alongside increasing public opposition to captivity for entertainment purposes. This legislation seeks to address significant welfare concerns regarding the mental and physical health of cetaceans kept in artificial enclosures, which can lead to unnatural behaviors and increased mortality rates.
While the bill has garnered support from animal rights advocates and the public, there may be opposition from facilities that currently operate cetacean exhibitions as well as individuals who argue that such displays provide educational value. Critics may highlight the economic implications of enforcing a ban on cetacean displays, especially regarding employment and tourism revenue in the state. Additionally, questions about the impact on existing facilities and their capacity to adapt to new regulations could fuel further debate and scrutiny as the bill progresses.