Bill > SB2818

This bill clarifies and expands the penalties for violations of boating and ocean recreation laws in Hawaii, specifically amending section 200-14 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. It lists a comprehensive set of prohibited actions related to boating, including accidents, operating vessels recklessly or without proper safety measures like insurance or education, unauthorized mooring or commercial activity in state facilities, unauthorized camping, and operating under the influence of intoxicants. These violations are classified as petty misdemeanors, punishable by fines of up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to thirty days, or both. The bill also defines what constitutes "unauthorized" conduct for certain offenses, requiring it to be explicitly prohibited by statute, department rule, a permit, or a posted restriction. Additionally, it clarifies penalties for traffic infractions within boating facilities and allows courts to prohibit individuals from operating vessels in certain areas as a condition of probation. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2026.