Bill > SB756

This bill establishes the DLNRTip application as the official electronic platform for reporting natural resource violations in Hawaii, addressing previous challenges with inconsistent monitoring and delayed responses. The bill defines natural resource violations to include activities like wildlife poaching, pollution, and other actions that harm the state's natural environment. It mandates that the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) design the mobile application to allow anonymous reporting and ensure continuous monitoring by qualified personnel. The application must facilitate timely and actionable information submission, including text, photographs, videos, and other evidence of potential violations. The bill requires DLNR to submit annual reports to the legislature detailing the total number of reports received, the number of reports resulting in enforcement actions, average response times, and other relevant findings. To support the implementation, the bill appropriates $150,000 for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 and establishes one full-time equivalent position to manage the application, monitor reports, coordinate with enforcement personnel, and maintain records. The ultimate goal is to enhance citizen involvement in conservation enforcement and restore public confidence in reporting natural resource violations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=756&year=2026