HI SCR75

Requests the Department of Agriculture to identify departmental lands unsuitable for agricultural use that could be leased or used as pet animal sanctuaries

Identifies feral cats as a major threat to Hawaii's endangered species, with approximately 2 million feral cats currently living in Hawaii and killing an estimated 2.4 billion birds per year nationwide

Notes that feral cats harbor the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which is fatal to endangered Hawaiian monk seals and can infect vulnerable human populations

Proposes pet animal sanctuaries as a potential solution to separate feral cats from native wildlife while increasing sterilization rates and enabling adoption

Requires the Department of Agriculture to submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2024 Regular Session convenes