HI HB1988

Prohibits the import, export, sale, harvest, or offer for sale of coral products (including jewelry and curios made from coral skeletons) in Hawaii, with narrow exceptions.

Exempts coral products used for research by accredited museums or universities, restoration of historic Hawaiian sites, native Hawaiian cultural practices, construction materials, cosmetics, medicines, and education.

Allows non-commercial harvest of coral products under a special activity permit and coral products authorized by federal law or federal permit.

Defines "coral" broadly to include all species from orders such as black corals, stony corals, soft corals, and fire corals, but excludes jellyfish and man o' war.

Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to amend administrative rules by December 31, 2024, to implement the prohibition, effective July 1, 2022.