HI HB2243

Prohibits taking, harvesting, or possessing opihi statewide except during open seasons (June 1-August 31 and December 1-January 31) and subject to traditional Native Hawaiian gathering rights.

Bans all opihi harvesting below the waterline statewide year-round.

Prohibits possession of underwater viewing equipment (mask, snorkel, SCUBA), an opihi harvesting tool, and live opihi at the same time.

Establishes a complete five-year moratorium on opihi harvesting from Oahu's coastal and nearshore waters, expiring June 30, 2015, except for traditional Native Hawaiian practices.

Requires the Division of Aquatic Resources to submit annual reports on effectiveness and enforcement of these restrictions to the legislature from 2012 through 2015.