Hawaii Senate Bill SR136

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Refer: 3/22/24

Caption

Requesting That State And County Departments And Agencies Meet Certain Guidelines Before Passing Any Ordinance Or Rule That Restricts Subsistence Fishing.

Impact

The resolution highlights the potential negative consequences of poorly defined regulations that could inadvertently restrict subsistence fishing without valid justification. It insists that prior to implementing any restrictions, agencies must provide detailed information about the data collection methods used to support proposed regulations, revealing any potential biases or misinterpretations in the data. Furthermore, SR136 pushes for a thoughtful examination of the broader implications of any new rules, including an understanding of tourism effects on fishing practices and the overall health of aquatic populations.

Summary

Senate Resolution 136 (SR136) seeks to establish a framework for state and county agencies in Hawaii to follow before enacting any rules or ordinances that would restrict subsistence fishing. The bill emphasizes the importance of subsistence fishing as an integral part of Hawaiian culture and way of life, and it calls for transparency and clarity in the decision-making process related to fishing regulations. Recognizing ongoing concerns from subsistence fishers about the impact of recent regulatory measures, SR136 advocates for a more structured approach to protect both fishing practices and aquatic resources.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding SR136 lies in its call for guidelines to be established before rulemaking occurs. Critics may argue that these guidelines could slow down the necessary interventions needed to protect vulnerable fish populations. Moreover, the expectation that agencies engage in transparent communications and publicly disclose their methodologies prior to any regulatory changes could challenge existing administrative processes, potentially causing friction between conservation efforts and cultural practices.

Recommendations

To ensure that subsistence fishing is not unduly restricted, SR136 advocates for the establishment of temporary restrictions when necessary, paired with comprehensive plans aimed at restoring aquatic populations. The resolution also encourages the use of alternatives to restrictions, such as implementing artificial reefs, and emphasizes a collaborative approach to create tailored solutions that work toward sustainability for all stakeholders involved.