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HI HB1988

Bill

Official Source

Status

Introduced

1/26/2026

Primary Sponsor

Nicole Lowen

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Prohibits the commercial harvesting of aquatic life for aquarium purposes in Hawaii, regardless of collection method
  • Hawaii's coral reef ecosystems are valued at $33.57 billion, with climate change projected to cause 70% coral loss over the next 25 years
  • Commercial aquarium trade has reduced some herbivorous fish species populations by up to 80%, with yellow tang failing to recover since collection pressure ended in late 2017
  • Exemptions preserved for special activity permits, non-commercial recreational permits, and captive-breeding/aquaculture operations under existing law
  • Traditional and customary Native Hawaiian practices, fish consumption, bait fishing, and fishpond management remain unaffected by the prohibition

Legislative Description

Relating To Environmental Protection.

Prohibition

Last Action

Referred to WAL, JHA, referral sheet 3

1/28/2026

Committee Referrals

Water & Land1/28/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available