HI HB436

Makes it unlawful to operate a motorized recreational vessel with an inboard/outboard or outboard motor in Hawaii state waters within 500 meters of shore unless equipped with a properly functioning propeller guard.

Defines propeller guard as either an after-market physical barrier (cage, screen, vane guard, shroud, ring, deflector) installed on a vessel's propeller or a propeller manufactured with integrated physical barrier or rounded leading blade edges.

Cites Hawaii's second-worst boating fatality rate nationally in 2011 (44 deaths per 100,000 registered vessels) and reports recent critical injuries and deaths from propeller contact with swimmers, divers, surfers, and paddlers.

Addresses environmental protection by noting propeller guards reduce strikes on marine animals (sharks, dolphins, sea turtles), damage to aquatic plants and reef ecosystems, and shoreline erosion from propeller turbulence and wake.

Takes effect upon approval with no specified enforcement penalties included in the bill text.