HI HB1684

Amends HRS Section 188-39.5 to require the Department of Land and Natural Resources to adopt rules establishing a permit system limiting the number and capacity of boats and number of people at specified manta ray aggregation sites.

Maintains existing prohibitions on capturing or killing manta rays in state marine waters, with criminal penalties ranging from $500 for first offense to $10,000 for third or subsequent offense.

Allows special activity permits under Section 187A-6 provided the take does not exceed the potential biological removal level, with DLNR to adopt rules defining "take" and determining when it exceeds biological limits.

Takes effect July 1, 2030.