HB 266 Summary

• Establishes surfers' right of way in designated surf locations in Hawaii, requiring fishermen and drone fishermen to move fishing lines or poles if they interfere with surfers or other recreational users.

• Establishes misdemeanor penalties for violations: $500 for first offense, $1,500 for second offense, and $3,000 for third or subsequent offense.

• Authorizes seizure of fishing equipment for first offense violations and seizure and forfeiture for second offense violations.

• Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to implement a public education campaign, install signage at designated surf locations, and publish a map identifying all designated surf locations.

• Designates enforcement authority to the DLNR's Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement, the Department of Law Enforcement, county police departments, and county fire departments.