Bill > SB1165

This bill establishes state programs within the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to co-manage the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary and the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, addressing a historical reliance on federal funding for these state roles and potential conflicts of interest. It creates a "co-managed marine area special fund" to receive administrative fees, penalties, permit fees, federal moneys, and legislative appropriations, which will then be used by DLNR to fund the administration and management of these sanctuary and monument programs, including hiring staff. The bill also appropriates general funds for fiscal years 2015-2016 and 2016-2017, and special funds for fiscal year 2016-2017, to initially support these co-manager positions while the special fund is being established.