Bill > SB2973

This bill requires the Division of Aquatic Resources, which is part of the Department of Land and Natural Resources, to start the process of creating rules to either regulate or completely ban "jug line fishing" and "jug rig variant fishing methods" by July 1, 2026. These fishing methods are described as non-selective and harmful to marine life, often entangling or injuring non-target species like sharks, sea turtles, and Hawaiian monk seals, and can also become dangerous marine debris. The bill highlights a specific incident in September 2025 where a young Hawaiian monk seal died due to a jug rig variant fishing method, underscoring the risks associated with these practices. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 3000.