SB 572 Summary

• Authorizes imposition of criminal fines under Hawaii Penal Code section 706-640 for violations of aquatic resources laws in Chapter 187A, with collected fines deposited to the conservation and resources enforcement special fund.

• Increases minimum penalties in Chapter 187A for general aquatic resources violations to $250 (first offense), $500 (second offense), and $1,000 (third or subsequent offense).

• Permits the Department of Land and Natural Resources to recommend community service that benefits the damaged resource when a court orders community service in lieu of monetary fines.

• Allows fines up to $1,000 for taking, killing, or injuring aquatic life in violation of Hawaii Administrative Rules subtitle 5 of title 12, in addition to other applicable penalties.

• Increases penalties in Chapter 188 for aquatic resource violations and allows fines up to $1,000 per specimen of aquatic life taken, killed, or injured.

• Takes effect July 1, 2021.