Hawaii Senate Bill SCR170

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/12/25

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Agriculture To Identify Existing Departmental Lands That Are Unsuitable For Agricultural Use But May Be Utilized As Pet Animal Sanctuaries.

Impact

The resolution emphasizes that feral cats contribute to the extinction of numerous native birds, mammals, and reptiles in Hawaii, which hold ecological and spiritual significance. By proposing the establishment of sanctuaries, the resolution aims to separate feral cats from vulnerable wildlife, thereby reducing predation rates and enhancing sterilization efforts. Expected outcomes include improved protection for endangered species like the Hawaiian monk seal and a potential decrease in the feral cat population through socialization and the promotion of community adoptions.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 170 (SCR170) aims to address the issue of feral cats in Hawaii, which pose a significant threat to the state's endangered wildlife. The resolution calls on the Department of Agriculture to identify lands that are unsuitable for agricultural use and could potentially be repurposed as pet animal sanctuaries. This initiative is seen as a strategic way to mitigate the growing feral cat population, which is estimated to be around two million statewide and is recognized as a leading cause of mortality for various native species.

Conclusion

SCR170 represents a proactive approach to safeguarding Hawaii's unique biodiversity from the threats posed by feral cats. If successfully implemented, the recommendations laid out in the resolution could not only protect vulnerable species but also foster a more sustainable coexistence between pets and native wildlife in the state.

Contention

While SCR170 primarily focuses on the creation of pet animal sanctuaries, it also highlights ineffective current initiatives, such as Trap-Neuter-Return programs, which have struggled to manage the cat population effectively. Some may question whether the proposed solutions are sufficient to tackle the underlying issues of feral cat overpopulation and its impacts on local wildlife. Furthermore, concerns may arise over the allocation of agricultural lands for sanctuaries, particularly regarding the balance between agricultural use and wildlife conservation.