summary
Introduced
01/21/2026
01/21/2026
In Committee
02/20/2026
02/20/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Clarifies that rules adopted by the Department of Land and Natural Resources pursuant to section 190-3, HRS, may regulate aquarium fish permits. Establishes a criminal penalty and monetary fines for aquarium fishing violations. Clarifies that each fish or aquatic life specimen taken in violation of certain fishing laws regarding aquarium fish and the possession and use of prohibited explosives, electrofishing devices, and poisonous substances constitutes a separate offense. (SD1)
AI Summary
This bill clarifies that the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) can create rules to regulate aquarium fish permits, which are permits allowing individuals to collect fish and other aquatic life for aquariums. It also establishes stricter penalties for violations related to aquarium fishing, including increased fines for repeat offenses. Importantly, the bill specifies that each individual fish or aquatic life specimen taken illegally will be considered a separate offense, meaning penalties can accumulate quickly. This legislation follows a court ruling and the DLNR's stance that environmental reviews are necessary before issuing or renewing aquarium fishing permits, aiming to protect the state's nearshore marine life.
Committee Categories
Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
The committee(s) on JDC recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes in JDC were as follows: 4 Aye(s): Senator(s) Rhoads, Gabbard, Chang, San Buenaventura; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 1 No(es): Senator(s) Awa; and 0 Excused: none. (on 02/26/2026)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2078&year=2026 |
| SB2078_SD1_TESTIMONY_JDC_02-26-26_ | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/Testimony/SB2078_SD1_TESTIMONY_JDC_02-26-26_.PDF |
| BillText | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/SB2078_SD1_.HTM |
| Committee Report SB2078_SD1_SSCR2602_ | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/CommReports/SB2078_SD1_SSCR2602_.pdf |
| SB2078_TESTIMONY_WLA_02-18-26_ | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/Testimony/SB2078_TESTIMONY_WLA_02-18-26_.PDF |
| BillText | https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/sessions/session2026/bills/SB2078_.HTM |
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