HI HB1336

Prohibits the Department of Land and Natural Resources from establishing restricted fishing areas where bottomfish fishing or taking is prohibited.

Defines bottomfish to include seven species: onaga, ula'ula, kalekale, 'opakapaka, 'ukikiki, hapupu'u, and lehi.

Based on recent stock assessments indicating bottomfish are neither overfished nor subject to overfishing, and no evidence that existing restricted areas reduce bottomfish mortality.

Repeals restrictions established in July 1998 that were created in response to concerns that bottomfish stocks were approaching an over-fished condition.

Takes effect upon approval.