Bill > SB519

This bill aims to streamline the process for aquaculture and scientific research entities collecting aquatic life in Hawaii by modifying the administrative rules governing permit requirements. Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to amend the definition of "aquarium purposes" in its administrative rules to exempt bona fide aquaculture and scientific research entities from obtaining a special activity permit when collecting aquatic life, but with the condition that the collected aquatic life remains within the same county where it was originally collected while still alive. The legislative finding suggests that the current permit process is overly burdensome for the Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR), creating unnecessary delays that impede aquacultural research. By removing the permit requirement for these specific entities and maintaining a geographic restriction, the bill seeks to facilitate marine research and aquaculture activities while still maintaining some regulatory oversight to prevent unauthorized transport of aquatic life across county boundaries.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=519&year=2026