HI HB1734

Prohibits knowingly capturing, killing, or taking any shark within Hawaii state marine waters, with misdemeanor penalties of $500 for first offense, $2,000 for second offense, and $10,000 for third or subsequent offense.

Expands existing manta ray protections to cover all ray species, with identical penalty structure ($500/$2,000/$10,000) and updated definition to include orders Torpediniformes and Myliobatiformes.

Allows seizure and forfeiture of captured sharks or rays, commercial marine licenses, vessels, and fishing equipment, plus administrative fines up to $10,000 and attorney's fees per animal taken.

Exempts special activity permits under section 187A-6 (not exceeding biological removal levels), native Hawaiian gathering rights and traditional cultural practices, department actions for public safety, and self-defense situations.

Effective date: February 19, 2022.