Bill > SB19

This bill aims to support the Department of Land and Natural Resources' Division of Aquatic Resources by appropriating funds to establish eight new full-time equivalent (FTE) positions to address various environmental and conservation challenges. The positions include aquatic biologists at different levels (III, IV, and V) and fishery technicians, with specific roles such as permitting and environmental review, emergency response, aquatic invasive species management, noncommercial fisheries oversight, and positions specifically designated for Molokai. The bill recognizes the increasing threats to Hawaii's aquatic ecosystems, including invasive species, habitat degradation, pollution, reduced freshwater flow, and natural disasters, which have negatively impacted local communities' fishing and gathering practices. These new positions are intended to help the division better manage, conserve, and restore the state's unique aquatic resources and ecosystems for present and future generations. While the bill indicates an effective date of July 1, 2050, this is likely a placeholder date and would typically be adjusted during the legislative process. The funding would cover these positions for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, with the exact monetary amounts to be determined during budget negotiations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=19&year=2026