HI HB1948

Prohibits any law, ordinance, or rule from restricting the type of fishing gear used for subsistence fishing by state residents, while allowing restrictions on time, place, and manner of gear use to remain in effect.

Defines "resident" as a person living in Hawaii for one year and "subsistence fishing" as use of renewable ocean resources for direct personal or family consumption or sharing.

Amends section 187A-5 to clarify that department rules on fishing gear specifications and numbers cannot prohibit gear types for subsistence fishing purposes.

Exempts subsistence fishing gear restrictions from the board's expedited rulemaking authority that allows adoption of other fishing rules by formal board action without full administrative procedures.

Takes effect upon approval.