SB2174 Summary

• Establishes an Aquacultural Area Lease Program within the Department of Agriculture to identify and lease state facilities, state lands, and state marine waters suitable for commercial aquaculture.

• Requires the department to hold public meetings in affected communities and complete identification and selection of aquacultural areas by June 30, 2024, with all leases fully executed by June 30, 2032.

• Sets lease terms including annual rent, exclusive use rights, required federal/state/county permits, performance bonds, and allows for lease revocation for violations or non-performance.

• Establishes civil and criminal penalties (up to $10,000 per violation) for conducting unpermitted aquacultural activities or damaging leased aquacultural operations.

• Deposits lease revenues into the Aquaculture Development Special Fund for program implementation, hiring personnel, and paying lease rents to other agencies; exempts the program from Hawaii Ocean and Submerged Lands Leasing Act requirements.