Bill > SB1537

This bill aims to protect native Hawaiian wildlife, particularly the Hawaiian monk seal, by prohibiting the feeding of feral non-native animals within one-half mile of the ocean or streams. The legislation is motivated by the threat these animals pose to native species, specifically highlighting the spread of toxoplasmosis, a deadly parasite that can be transmitted through the feces of non-native animals and can fatally infect Hawaiian monk seals. Under the bill, individuals who feed feral non-native animals on state land within the specified areas will face escalating penalties: first, a warning; second, a citation and mandatory community service; and third, a misdemeanor charge. The bill requires each county to adopt similar ordinances for county lands and mandates that the Department of Land and Natural Resources submit an annual report to the legislature detailing violations. The underlying goal is to manage feral non-native animal populations and reduce their environmental impact, ultimately protecting Hawaii's native wildlife from disease transmission and ecological disruption.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1537&year=2026