Bill > SB1084

This bill addresses the funding and establishment of new positions within the Division of Aquatic Resources at the Department of Land and Natural Resources to support the agency's mission of managing and conserving Hawaii's aquatic ecosystems. The bill proposes creating eight new full-time equivalent (FTE) positions across different specialized roles, including aquatic biologists at various levels (III, IV, and V) and fishery technicians, focusing on tasks such as permitting, environmental review, emergency response, invasive species management, noncommercial fisheries, and specific support for Molokai. These positions are intended to help the division address increasing threats to Hawaii's streams, estuaries, and reefs, including invasive species, habitat degradation, pollution, and reduced freshwater flow, which have negatively impacted local fishing and gathering practices. The appropriation will provide funding for these positions for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, with the act scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2050.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1084&year=2026