HI HCR65

Requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources establish a task force to develop rules protecting Hawaii's ocean resources in response to increased recreational, subsistence, and commercial activities in state waters.

Task force composition includes two members each appointed by the Governor, Senate President, and House Speaker, plus one member selected from three candidates provided by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.

Task force must consult with experts in Hawaiian konohiki practices, review scientific data from credible academic sources, and conduct public outreach meetings on each island.

Department of Land and Natural Resources must provide administrative and technical support to the task force and refrain from implementing rules related to fishing, gathering, or ocean resources in Niihau's coastal and nearshore waters pending the task force report.

Task force must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2015 Regular Session convenes.