SB 2717 Summary

• Prohibits knowingly capturing, possessing, abusing, entangling, or killing any shark in state marine waters, with criminal penalties of $500 for first offense, $2,000 for second offense, and $10,000 for third or subsequent offense.

• Establishes administrative fines of up to $10,000 per shark violated, plus seizure and forfeiture of captured sharks, commercial marine licenses, vessels, and fishing equipment.

• Exempts special activity permits, research permits, Department of Land and Natural Resources actions for public safety, sharks taken outside state waters with proper documentation, and actions taken in self-defense or defense of others.

• Protects traditional and customary Hawaiian rights under the state constitution related to shark fishing.

• Becomes effective upon approval.