HI HB2022

Establishes an aquarium fish conservation program within the Division of Aquatic Resources to regulate the collection and trade of fish and aquatic life for aquarium purposes.

Requires the program to implement conservation measures including designation of limited-entry areas, certification requirements for permit holders, bag and catch limits, and enhanced penalties for noncompliance.

Limits the number of aquarium fish permits issued annually and requires permit applicants to obtain certification from a recognized national or international certification agency maintaining standards for safe collection practices, including a maximum fatality rate of one percent or less.

Exempts customary and traditional rights for subsistence, cultural, or religious purposes including native Hawaiian gathering rights, and does not prohibit taking fish for human consumption or bait.

Requires all rules to be adopted and fully implemented by July 1, 2018, with the Act taking effect July 1, 2016.