Relating To Special Activity Permits.
This legislation aims to streamline the permitting process, which currently can be cumbersome and lengthy. By instituting a clear timeline for permit approvals, the bill is expected to facilitate scientific and educational activities that involve aquatic resources. This change is particularly significant for researchers and educational institutions who require timely access to conduct their studies or programs. The centralized control by the Department could improve regulatory oversight and ensure adherence to conservation standards.
House Bill 769 seeks to amend Section 187A-6 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes concerning special activity permits related to aquatic life. Specifically, it allows the Department of Land and Natural Resources to issue permits for activities such as taking aquatic life, possessing fishing gear, or engaging in feeding and watching aquatic resources, which are otherwise prohibited by law. The bill stipulates that these permits can be issued for up to one year and must be approved or denied within a strict timeline of 90 days from receipt of the application.
While the primary thrust of HB 769 is to enhance the efficiency of issuing special activity permits, there may be points of contention regarding the potential for revocation of permits. The bill empowers the Department to revoke a permit for any infraction of its terms, and individuals with revoked permits are barred from reapplying for a year. This aspect raises concerns among stakeholders about the flexibility and fairness of the permit system, as the definitions of infractions and the revocation process may significantly impact researchers and educators reliant on such permits.