HI SCR45

Requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources to recognize game mammals and birds as a sustainable food source, provided environmental impacts are minimized through native ecosystem protections that maintain viable game populations.

Recognizes that proper management of game populations in appropriate areas minimizes impacts to agriculture, watersheds, and native habitats while providing benefits such as reducing grass fire fuel and controlling weeds.

Directs each state department, agency, and office to incorporate local hunting and fishing industries into any food security or sustainability strategies they develop or implement.

Requires the head of each principal state department to submit reports to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2023 and 2024 Regular Sessions detailing progress in incorporating local hunting and fishing industries into food security and sustainability strategies, including findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation.

Acknowledges the state's public trust responsibilities to conserve natural resources for future generations and protect native Hawaiian traditional and customary practices under the Hawaii State Constitution.