HI HB1388

Requires persons taking or harvesting opihi in Hawaii to wear a flotation device, protective footwear, and use brightly colored rope at least 200 feet in length that is readily visible in water.

Establishes $100 fine and confiscation of all harvested opihi for first offense violations.

Establishes $100 fine and confiscation of all opihi taken by the offender and accompanying persons for second offense violations.

Establishes penalty of up to 30 days imprisonment and confiscation of all opihi taken by the offender and accompanying persons for third or subsequent offenses.

Defines opihi as all known Hawaiian opihi species including blackfoot, yellowfoot, koele, and greenfoot varieties; defines protective footwear as water shoes, fishing shoes, or similar footwear preventing loss of footing.