HI HB106

Department of Land and Natural Resources must review safety records of all nearshore areas statewide, including frequency of ocean activities, accidents, injuries, fatalities, and effectiveness of existing safety features like swimming buoys.

Department must report findings and recommendations for improving nearshore water safety to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2012 legislative session convenes.

Appropriates funds from general revenues for fiscal year 2011-2012 to install swimming buoys at Kaanapali beach on Maui to increase swimmer safety.

Bill cites October 2009 fatal diving incident in Maunalua Bay on Oahu as motivation for addressing increased safety concerns from recreational and commercial activities in Hawaii's nearshore waters.

Effective date is July 1, 2011.