Bill > SB2535

This bill prohibits the capture and sale of any aquatic life from Hawaii's state marine waters for "commercial aquarium purposes," which is defined as taking marine life for profit, gain, or livelihood to be sold into the aquarium trade for captivity as a pet or for ornamental display. This prohibition applies regardless of how the aquatic life is collected and aims to protect Hawaii's reef ecosystems, which are vital for traditional cultural practices, subsistence, and the nature-based tourism economy, especially in light of climate change. The bill also makes exceptions for captive-breeding and aquaculture activities, special permits for scientific or educational purposes, traditional and customary practices, lawful taking of fish for consumption or bait, and lawful management or taking of aquatic life from fishponds. Additionally, it repeals existing laws that allowed for permits to take aquatic life for aquarium purposes and removes references to aquarium fish permits from regulations concerning the Ha`ena community-based subsistence fishing area and commercial marine dealer receipts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2535&year=2026