Bill > SB570

This bill addresses the growing population of goats on Hawaii island by prohibiting the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) from establishing or implementing bag limits (restrictions on the number of goats a hunter can take) in public hunting areas. The bill's legislative findings highlight that goats are causing nuisance and safety issues in neighborhoods and on roadways, and that they are not native to the environment and lack natural predators. By removing bag limits, the bill aims to support hunters as conservation partners who can help control the goat population. Specifically, the bill amends Section 183D-4 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to explicitly state that the DLNR cannot set bag limits for goats in public hunting areas, while maintaining the department's broader authority to establish and manage game management areas, wildlife sanctuaries, and public hunting areas. The bill will take effect immediately upon approval.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=570&year=2026