Hawaii House Bill HCR110

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Report Pass: 3/31/23
• Refer: 3/31/23

Caption

Requesting The Hawaii Invasive Species Council, In Coordination And Collaboration With The City And County Of Honolulu And County Of Hawaii, To Establish And Implement A Five-year Pilot Program To Mitigate And Control The Significant Increase In The Population Of Feral Chickens.

Impact

The implementation of this pilot program is anticipated to have a substantial impact on local laws regarding wildlife management and public health. By introducing mechanisms for the capture and control of feral chickens, the program seeks to alleviate the negative consequences that these animals impose on the community and local ecology. It aims to establish a more systematic approach to managing invasive species, potentially setting a precedent for similar future initiatives.

Summary

HCR110, introduced in the Thirty-second Legislature of Hawaii, requests the Hawaii Invasive Species Council to collaborate with local county governments to establish a five-year pilot program aimed at mitigating and controlling the growing population of feral chickens. This bill arose from concerns that feral chickens pose significant nuisances in urban and suburban areas, where they damage gardens and crops, create unsanitary conditions, and cause noise disturbances.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR110 appears to be generally supportive among those who recognize the challenges posed by feral chickens. Residents have expressed frustrations over property damage and health concerns due to the presence of these animals. However, there may be contention among specific community members regarding how such control measures should be implemented, balancing humane treatment with the need for effective population management.

Contention

Notably, one point of contention revolves around the provision of free traps for public use as part of the pilot program. While such measures are intended to encourage community involvement in managing the feral population, there may be concerns about the responsibility and effectiveness of individuals in using traps humanely. Furthermore, the program's success will hinge on the collection and handling of captured animals, which necessitates careful planning and oversight to avoid unintended consequences.