Bill > SB1537

This bill addresses the issue of feral non-native animals and their potential threat to Hawaii's native species, particularly the Hawaiian monk seal. The legislation prohibits feeding, harboring, or caring for feral non-native animals on state land within one-half mile of the ocean or a stream, with escalating penalties for violations. For a first offense, individuals receive a warning from the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR); a second offense results in a citation and mandatory community service, potentially focused on environmental restoration; and a third or subsequent offense is classified as a misdemeanor. The bill requires each county to adopt similar ordinances for county lands by January 1st and mandates that DLNR submit an annual report to the legislature detailing violations. The legislative findings highlight the serious ecological risk posed by these animals, specifically noting that they can spread Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that is a leading cause of mortality for Hawaiian monk seals. By preventing the feeding of these animals, the bill aims to manage their populations and reduce the environmental transmission of harmful parasites, ultimately protecting native wildlife species.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1537&year=2025