Bill > SB1457

This bill aims to enhance ocean user safety by granting the Board of Land and Natural Resources expanded authority to manage water sports equipment and implement adaptive management strategies. The bill defines "water sports equipment" as any non-transportation device used for pleasure, recreation, or sports in water, such as surfboards, kayaks, or paddleboards. It specifically authorizes the board to adopt, amend, and repeal interim rules related to commercial and recreational use of such equipment, with the ability to create rules quickly and without going through the traditional lengthy rulemaking process. These interim rules can be in effect for up to 24 months and will help the Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation respond more flexibly to rapidly changing ocean technologies and safety concerns. The bill also establishes penalties for individuals who violate these new rules, which can be enforced in accordance with existing state statutes. The legislative intent is to provide the board with greater flexibility in managing ocean recreation, similar to adaptive management authorities already granted to other divisions within the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1457&year=2025