HI HB583

Establishes a statewide ban on taking or harvesting opihi (Hawaiian limpets) below the waterline at any time of year.

Prohibits harvesting opihi above the waterline from April 1 through September 30 (closed season), with harvest allowed October 1 through March 31 (open season).

Implements a five-year moratorium on all opihi harvesting on the island of Oahu, effective upon approval and repealing June 30, 2014.

Exempts ahupuaa tenants who are descendants of native Hawaiians inhabiting the Hawaiian Islands prior to 1778 from the restrictions, subject to state regulation of their customary and traditional rights.

Requires the Division of Aquatic Resources to monitor opihi population size and demography and submit annual reports to the legislature on the effectiveness of these protections.