HI HB2478

Authorizes the Governor of Hawaii to execute a compact to join the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission, an interstate agency that helps manage Pacific ocean fisheries resources sustainably.

Establishes Hawaii representation on the Pacific Marine Fisheries Commission through three commissioners: the Board of Land and Natural Resources chairperson (ex officio), and two appointed representatives from the fishing community with at least one being a practitioner of traditional and customary native Hawaiian cultural fishing practices.

Incorporates the Pacific Marine Fisheries Compact into Hawaii law, which covers marine, shell, and anadromous fisheries management across the Pacific Ocean and establishes commission duties including research, recommendations to state governments, and coordination of fishery conservation efforts.

Specifies that non-ex officio commissioners serve four-year terms and may be removed by the Governor after due notice and public hearing; requires Governor appointments to be made with Senate advice and consent.

Takes effect upon approval and establishes Hawaii's participation in the interstate compact framework for coordinated Pacific fisheries management and conservation.