Hawaii Senate Bill SCR122

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Report Pass: 4/3/24
• Engrossed: 4/4/24
• Refer: 4/5/24
• Report Pass: 4/15/24
• Report Pass: 4/22/24
• Refer: 4/15/24

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources To Work With The National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration And Other Experts To Conduct A Study On The Population Status Of Coral Reef Herbivores Around The Island Of Oahu And Develop Effective Policies For Substantially Increasing Those Populations Within A Decade.

Impact

The bill highlights current concerns regarding the declining populations of coral reef herbivores, which has led to degraded reef ecosystems primarily due to overfishing and poor land use practices. The resolution underlines that the existing herbivore fishing regulations are inadequate to support the recovery of these critical species, which play an essential role in the health of coral reefs. It urges the need for a scientific study to inform future regulations and policies that would facilitate the replenishment of these populations and ultimately enhance the stability of coral ecosystems.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 122 requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources of Hawaii to collaborate with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and other experts to conduct a study regarding the population status of depleted coral reef herbivores around Oahu. The bill emphasizes the importance of these herbivores in maintaining healthy coral reef ecosystems, which provide vital economic and ecological benefits to the state, including supporting fisheries and tourism. The resolution calls for an assessment of effective alternative policies aimed at significantly increasing these herbivore populations within a decade.

Sentiment

The general sentiment towards SCR122 is one of support for environmental conservation efforts, with stakeholders recognizing the necessity of addressing the declining health of coral reefs and the associated herbivore populations. The resolution signals proactive legislative action aimed at preserving Hawaii's natural resources, reflecting a commitment to sustainable environmental practices. However, some contention may arise from those invested in fishing practices, who might perceive stricter regulations as detrimental to their livelihoods.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SCR122 may revolve around the balance between environmental protections and fishing rights. As fishing is a cultural and economic activity in Hawaii, the introduction of new policies could evoke concerns regarding the impact on local fishermen and communities that rely on reef ecosystems for their livelihood. The resolution requires careful crafting of legislative measures to ensure that conservation goals do not come at the expense of local economic activities.