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HI SCR133
Concurrent Resolution
Status
3/16/2026
Primary Sponsor
Mike Gabbard
Click for details
AI Summary
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Requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources, in consultation with the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, to adopt rules prohibiting commercial aquaculture of any octopus species in Hawaii.
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Cites environmental concerns including intensive coastal development, high energy demands, large seawater withdrawals and discharges, nutrient-rich waste generation, and potential pathogen spillover or escape of non-native species.
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Raises animal welfare concerns, noting octopuses are highly intelligent, solitary animals with complex behavioral needs incompatible with intensive confinement, and no validated humane slaughter methods exist.
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Acknowledges the cultural significance of octopus in Native Hawaiian traditions as a valued food source, symbol of intelligence, and part of traditional fishing practices.
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Permits special activity permits to continue for non-commercial research and education activities involving native octopus species.
Legislative Description
Requesting The Department Of Land And Natural Resources, In Consultation With The Department Of Agriculture And Biosecurity, To Adopt Rules To Prohibit Commercial Octopus Aquaculture.
Environmental Protection
Last Action
The committee(s) on WLA recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes in WLA were as follows: 3 Aye(s): Senator(s) Lee, C., Lamosao; Aye(s) with reservations: Senator(s) Chang ; 1 No(es): Senator(s) Inouye; and 1 Excused: Senator(s) DeCorte.
4/8/2026