HB2380 Summary

• Creates a new offense prohibiting any person from knowingly capturing, harming, or killing sharks within Hawaii state marine waters, with criminal penalties of $500 for first offense, $2,000 for second offense, and $10,000 for third or subsequent offense.

• Expands existing ray protection law to cover spotted eagle ray, broad stingray, pelagic stingray, and Hawaiian stingray in addition to manta rays, with identical misdemeanor penalties and per-animal fines up to $10,000.

• Authorizes additional penalties including seizure and forfeiture of captured sharks or rays, commercial marine licenses, vessels, and fishing equipment, plus administrative fees and attorney's fees.

• Exempts special activity permits issued under section 187A-6 provided the permitted take does not exceed the potential biological removal level, with the department to adopt rules defining "take" and determining limits.

• Takes effect upon approval with no retroactive effect on penalties or proceedings that occurred before the law's effective date.