HI HB1339

Creates new penalty section prohibiting any person from knowingly capturing, killing, or taking any shark within state marine waters, with misdemeanor penalties of $500 for first offense, $2,000 for second offense, and $10,000 for third or subsequent offense.

Establishes additional administrative penalties of up to $10,000 per shark captured, plus seizure and forfeiture of captured sharks, commercial marine license, vessel, and fishing equipment.

Amends existing manta ray protection statute to include identical criminal and administrative penalties as sharks, with fines of $500, $2,000, and $10,000 for successive offenses plus up to $10,000 per manta ray captured.

Provides exemptions for native Hawaiian traditional and cultural practices, special research permits that do not exceed biological removal levels, department actions for public safety, and individuals protecting themselves from shark attacks.

All penalties assessed per individual shark or manta ray captured, killed, or taken in violation of the statute.