Hawaii Senate Bill SB961

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/23
• Refer: 1/27/23

Caption

Relating To Feral Chicken Control.

Impact

The bill seeks to appropriate funds from the general revenues of the State of Hawaii to the Department of Health for the control of the feral chicken population. This includes the establishment of a complaint hotline where residents can report issues related to feral chickens and request their removal. The department may also contract with eligible nonprofit organizations or for-profit entities to manage the implementation of this control program. This initiative represents a practical step towards addressing the societal and environmental impacts of these animals.

Summary

SB961, relating to feral chicken control, addresses the growing issue of feral chickens in Hawaii. The bill recognizes that the feral chicken population has increased to a problematic level, causing nuisances and health hazards for residents, particularly in urban and suburban areas. Issues such as property damage, road safety concerns, and health risks associated with the droppings of feral chickens are highlighted as significant factors necessitating intervention. The prevalence of feral roosters crowing at all hours adds to the complaints from the community about noise disturbances.

Contention

There may be differing opinions on the effectiveness and methods of controlling the feral chicken population. While some residents might support the steps taken towards addressing public health concerns and nuisance creation, others might have objections regarding the handling of removal or the potential lethality involved. The provision to utilize outside contractors could also raise concerns about accountability and effectiveness in achieving the bill's objectives. Overall, while the bill aims for comprehensive control, the execution may be subject to scrutiny and debate within the community.