HB 776 Summary

• Authorizes the Department of Land and Natural Resources to establish commercial marine vessel licenses that cover all persons aboard a fishing vessel under one license, eliminating the need for individual commercial marine licenses.

• Clarifies that any person providing fishing charter services in Hawaii must obtain a commercial marine license, regardless of whether the charter is vessel-based or shore-based.

• Exempts commercial marine licenses from licensing sanctions related to student loan defaults by removing provisions that condition license issuance on student loan repayment status.

• Maintains existing provisions requiring license suspension or denial for applicants not in compliance with child support orders or subpoenas related to paternity or child support proceedings.

• Effective date: July 1, 2050.