Bill > SB246

This bill requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to conduct a comprehensive study on coral reef herbivores around Oahu, which are fish species like parrotfish (uhu), surgeonfishes (kala, kole, manini), and chubs (nenue) that eat seaweeds and help maintain coral reef health. The study will focus on understanding the current population status of these herbivore species, with a priority on uhu and kala, and developing policies and strategies to substantially increase their populations within a decade. The bill highlights the critical importance of these fish, noting that Hawaii's coral reefs generate over $800 million annually and have a total economic value exceeding $33 billion, but are currently threatened by poor land use practices and increasing ocean warming that is expected to cause annual coral bleaching events by 2040. To accomplish this, the DLNR will consult with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center and other experts, and must submit a report with findings and recommendations to the Legislature by December 1, 2025. The bill appropriates funding for the study and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with the ultimate goal of protecting and restoring Hawaii's vital coral reef ecosystems.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=246&year=2026