HI HB2378

Removes fixed fine caps ($10,000 for koa trees, $2,000 for other trees) and allows the Board to set fines based on market value of damaged natural resources, environmental loss, and restoration costs.

Establishes tiered criminal penalties for violations of forest reserve rules: first offense requires mandatory minimum $100 fine or up to 30 days imprisonment; second offense within 5 years requires minimum $500 fine or up to 30 days imprisonment; third or more offenses within 5 years require $1,000 fine or up to 30 days imprisonment.

Classifies general forest reserve violations as petty misdemeanors, but violations of section 183-17 (timber harvesting) remain misdemeanors with penalties of up to $2,000 fine or one year imprisonment.

Repeals section 183-4, which previously provided a general $500 penalty for violations of chapters 183-185 without otherwise specified penalties.

Takes effect upon approval; does not apply retroactively to rights, duties, and proceedings that began before enactment.