HB 506: Equipment; Oahu Branch; Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement; Department of Land and Natural Resources; Appropriation

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO CONSERVATION ENFORCEMENT.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that coral reefs are extremely valuable to the people of Hawaii and provide benefits such as coastal protection from erosion due to rising sea levels and larger ocean swells as the ocean warms; sand production that replenishes beaches; and fisheries, recreation, tourism, and spiritual connection.  The legislature further finds that many reefs around the island of Oahu are widely known to be among the most degraded in the State, due to historically poor land use practices that buried corals with silt run-off and smothered corals with seaweeds fertilized by leaching sewage and fertilizer run-off.  The legislature also finds that warmer ocean temperatures are now causing more frequent and severe coral bleaching events that kill corals and are predicted to be annual events by about 2040.  Ocean acidification and other pollutants also adversely affect corals.

     The legislature additionally finds that one of the most effective ways to help corals withstand and recover from present and future threats is to ensure the existence of many herbivorous fishes on Hawaii's reefs, especially parrotfishes (uhu), surgeonfishes (kala and others), and chubs (nenue).  These fishes are known to crop seaweeds that would otherwise smother corals, providing space on the reefs for new corals to grow, especially after coral bleaching events.  The population of herbivorous fishes around Oahu is by far the lowest in Hawaii.

     The legislature finds that the board of land and natural resources adopted statewide herbivore fishing rules in December 2023 to protect herbivorous fish populations in the State.  However, enforcement of these rules, which is the responsibility of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources, has been particularly difficult around Oahu because:

     (1)  Fishing intensity is much greater on Oahu than on the other islands;

     (2)  Division of conservation and resources enforcement officers have been diverted to law enforcement duties on land due to recent increases in violent crime; and

     (3)  Most poaching of herbivorous fish occurs at night, which poses an extreme challenge to the several division of conservation and resources enforcement officers available for marine night patrols, especially given the lack of needed equipment.

     Therefore, the purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds for equipment for the Oahu branch of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources.

     SECTION 2.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $4,974,040 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 for equipment for the Oahu branch of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources, to be allocated as follows:

     (1)  $800,000 for two maritime enforcement patrol vessels, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (2)  $50,000 for two patrol watercrafts, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (3)  $50,000 for shipment costs for the items in paragraphs (1) and (2);

     (4)  $3,040,000 for thirty-two police marked patrol vehicles, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (5)  $206,000 for two towing vehicles for patrol vessels, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (6)  $10,000 for extended warranties for the two vehicles in paragraph (5);

     (7)  $14,000 for one floating drive-on dock;

     (8)  $1,800 for six personal flotation devices;

     (9)  $36,000 for six sets of SCUBA gear, including full equipment and training and certifications;

    (10)  $224,000 for thirty-two portable radios;

    (11)  $5,000 for one base station/repeater;

    (12)  $128,000 for thirty-two night-vision devices;

    (13)  $128,000 for thirty-two drones;

    (14)  $5,600 for thirty-two remote pilot certificates for the drones in paragraph (13);

    (15)  $215,640 per year for six mobile surveillance trailers;

    (16)  $48,000 for six quick-deploy license plate recognition camera systems; and

    (17)  $12,000 for installation costs for the items in paragraph (16).

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of land and natural resources for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 3.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2025.

Report Title:

Equipment; Oahu Branch; Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement; Department of Land and Natural Resources; Appropriation

Description:

Appropriates funds for equipment for the Oahu Branch of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.  (CD1)

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO CONSERVATION ENFORCEMENT.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that coral reefs are extremely valuable to the people of Hawaii and provide benefits such as coastal protection from erosion due to rising sea levels and larger ocean swells as the ocean warms; sand production that replenishes beaches; and fisheries, recreation, tourism, and spiritual connection.  The legislature further finds that many reefs around the island of Oahu are widely known to be among the most degraded in the State, due to historically poor land use practices that buried corals with silt run-off and smothered corals with seaweeds fertilized by leaching sewage and fertilizer run-off.  The legislature also finds that warmer ocean temperatures are now causing more frequent and severe coral bleaching events that kill corals and are predicted to be annual events by about 2040.  Ocean acidification and other pollutants also adversely affect corals.

     The legislature additionally finds that one of the most effective ways to help corals withstand and recover from present and future threats is to ensure the existence of many herbivorous fishes on Hawaii's reefs, especially parrotfishes (uhu), surgeonfishes (kala and others), and chubs (nenue).  These fishes are known to crop seaweeds that would otherwise smother corals, providing space on the reefs for new corals to grow, especially after coral bleaching events.  The population of herbivorous fishes around Oahu is by far the lowest in Hawaii.

     The legislature finds that the board of land and natural resources adopted statewide herbivore fishing rules in December 2023 to protect herbivorous fish populations in the State.  However, enforcement of these rules, which is the responsibility of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources, has been particularly difficult around Oahu because:

     (1)  Fishing intensity is much greater on Oahu than on the other islands;

     (2)  Division of conservation and resources enforcement officers have been diverted to law enforcement duties on land due to recent increases in violent crime; and

     (3)  Most poaching of herbivorous fish occurs at night, which poses an extreme challenge to the several division of conservation and resources enforcement officers available for marine night patrols, especially given the lack of needed equipment.

     Therefore, the purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds for equipment and personnel costs for the Oahu branch of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources.

     SECTION 2.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 and the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for equipment, personnel, and other costs for the Oahu branch of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources, to be allocated as follows:

     (1)  $           for two maritime enforcement patrol vessels, complete with audible and visual emergency equipment;

     (2)  $           for two patrol watercrafts, complete with audible and visual emergency equipment;

     (3)  $           for shipment costs for the items in paragraphs (1) and (2);

     (4)  $           for thirty-two police marked patrol vehicles, complete with audible and visual emergency equipment;

     (5)  $           for two towing vehicles for patrol vessels, complete with audible and visual emergency equipment;

     (6)  $           for extended warranties for the two vehicles in paragraph (5);

     (7)  $           for one floating drive-on dock;

     (8)  $           for six personal flotation devices;

     (9)  $           for six sets of SCUBA gear, including full equipment and training and certifications;

    (10)  $           for thirty-two portable radios;

    (11)  $           for one base station and repeater;

    (12)  $           for thirty-two night-vision devices;

    (13)  $           for thirty-two drones;

    (14)  $           for thirty-two remote pilot certificates for the drones in paragraph (13);

    (15)  $           per year for six mobile surveillance trailers;

    (16)  $           for six quick-deploy license plate recognition camera systems;

    (17)  $           for installation costs for the items in paragraph (16);

    (18)  $           for twenty full-time equivalent (20.0 FTE) conservation and resource enforcement officer I positions;

    (19)  $           for one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) secretary position;

    (20)  $           for lodging and transportation costs;

    (21)  $           for academy tuition costs;

    (22)  $           for education and training for the twenty full-time equivalent (20.0 FTE) conservation and resource enforcement officer I positions described in paragraph (18);

    (23)  $           for uniforms and gear for the twenty full‑time equivalent (20.0 FTE) conservation and resource enforcement officer I positions described in paragraph (18);

    (24)  $           for miscellaneous office supplies;

    (25)  $           for equipment for the twenty full-time equivalent (20.0 FTE) conservation and resource enforcement officer I positions described in paragraph (18);

    (26)  $           for furniture and workspace set-up;

    (27)  $           for information technology equipment; and

    (28)  $           for enforcement vehicles for the twenty full-time equivalent (20.0 FTE) conservation and resource enforcement officer I positions described in paragraph (18).

     The sums appropriated shall be expended by the department of land and natural resources for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 3.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2040.

Report Title:

Equipment; Personnel; Oahu Branch; Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement; Department of Land and Natural Resources; Appropriation

Description:

Appropriates funds for equipment, personnel, and other costs for the Oahu Branch of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.  Effective 7/1/2040.  (SD2)

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO CONSERVATION ENFORCEMENT.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that coral reefs are extremely valuable to the people of Hawaii and provide benefits such as coastal protection from erosion due to rising sea levels and larger ocean swells as the ocean warms; sand production that replenishes beaches; and fisheries, recreation, tourism, and spiritual connection.  The legislature further finds that many reefs around the island of Oahu are widely known to be among the most degraded in the State, due to historically poor land use practices that buried corals with silt run-off and smothered corals with seaweeds fertilized by leaching sewage and fertilizer run-off.  The legislature also finds that warmer ocean temperatures are now causing more frequent and severe coral bleaching events that kill corals and are predicted to be annual events by about 2040.  Ocean acidification and other pollutants also adversely affect corals.

     The legislature additionally finds that one of the most effective ways to help corals withstand and recover from present and future threats is to ensure the existence of many herbivorous fishes on Hawaii's reefs, especially parrotfishes (uhu), surgeonfishes (kala and others), and chubs (nenue).  These fishes are known to crop seaweeds that would otherwise smother corals, providing space on the reefs for new corals to grow, especially after coral bleaching events.  The population of herbivorous fishes around Oahu is by far the lowest in Hawaii.

     The legislature finds that the board of land and natural resources adopted statewide herbivore fishing rules in December 2023 to protect herbivorous fish populations in the State.  However, enforcement of these rules, which is the responsibility of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources, has been particularly difficult around Oahu because:

     (1)  Fishing intensity is much greater on Oahu than on the other islands;

     (2)  Division of conservation and resources enforcement officers have been diverted to law enforcement duties on land due to recent increases in violent crime; and

     (3)  Most poaching of herbivorous fish occurs at night, which poses an extreme challenge to the several division of conservation and resources enforcement officers available for marine night patrols, especially given the lack of needed equipment.

     Therefore, the purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds for equipment for the Oahu branch of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources.

     SECTION 2.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 for equipment for the Oahu branch of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources, to be allocated as follows:

     (1)  $           for two maritime enforcement patrol vessels, complete with audible and visual emergency equipment;

     (2)  $           for two patrol watercrafts, complete with audible and visual emergency equipment;

     (3)  $           for shipment costs for the items in paragraphs (1) and (2);

     (4)  $           for thirty-two police marked patrol vehicles, complete with audible and visual emergency equipment;

     (5)  $           for two towing vehicles for patrol vessels, complete with audible and visual emergency equipment;

     (6)  $           for extended warranties for the two vehicles in paragraph (5);

     (7)  $           for one floating drive-on dock;

     (8)  $           for six personal flotation devices;

     (9)  $           for six sets of SCUBA gear, including full equipment and training and certifications;

    (10)  $           for thirty-two portable radios;

    (11)  $           for one base station and repeater;

    (12)  $           for thirty-two night-vision devices;

    (13)  $           for thirty-two drones;

    (14)  $           for thirty-two remote pilot certificates for the drones in paragraph (13);

    (15)  $           per year for six mobile surveillance trailers;

    (16)  $           for six quick-deploy license plate recognition camera systems; and

    (17)  $           for installation costs for the items in paragraph (16).

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of land and natural resources for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 3.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2040.

Report Title:

Equipment; Oahu Branch; Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement; Department of Land and Natural Resources; Appropriation

Description:

Appropriates funds for equipment for the Oahu Branch of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.  Effective 7/1/2040.  (SD1)

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO CONSERVATION ENFORCEMENT.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that coral reefs are extremely valuable to the people of Hawaii and provide benefits such as coastal protection from erosion due to rising sea levels and larger ocean swells as the ocean warms; sand production that replenishes beaches; and fisheries, recreation, tourism, and spiritual connection.  The legislature further finds that many reefs around the island of Oahu are widely known to be among the most degraded in the State, due to historically poor land use practices that buried corals with silt run-off and smothered corals with seaweeds fertilized by leaching sewage and fertilizer run-off.  The legislature also finds that warmer ocean temperatures are now causing more frequent and severe coral bleaching events that kill corals and are predicted to be annual events by about 2040.  Ocean acidification and other pollutants also adversely affect corals.

     The legislature additionally finds that one of the most effective ways to help corals withstand and recover from present and future threats is to ensure the existence of many herbivorous fishes on Hawaii's reefs, especially parrotfishes (uhu), surgeonfishes (kala and others), and chubs (nenue).  These fishes are known to crop seaweeds that would otherwise smother corals, providing space on the reefs for new corals to grow, especially after coral bleaching events.  The population of herbivorous fishes around Oahu is by far the lowest in Hawaii.

     The legislature finds that the board of land and natural resources adopted statewide herbivore fishing rules in December 2023 to protect herbivorous fish populations in the State.  However, enforcement of these rules, which is the responsibility of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources, has been particularly difficult around Oahu because:

     (1)  Fishing intensity is much greater on Oahu than on the other islands;

     (2)  Division of conservation and resources enforcement officers have been diverted to law enforcement duties on land due to recent increases in violent crime; and

     (3)  Most poaching of herbivorous fish occurs at night, which poses an extreme challenge to the several division of conservation and resources enforcement officers available for marine night patrols, especially given the lack of needed equipment.

     Therefore, the purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds for equipment for the Oahu branch of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources.

     SECTION 2.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $           or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 for equipment for the Oahu branch of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources, to be allocated as follows:

     (1)  $           for two maritime enforcement patrol vessels, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (2)  $           for two patrol watercrafts, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (3)  $           for shipment costs for the items in paragraphs (1) and (2);

     (4)  $           for thirty-two police marked patrol vehicles, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (5)  $           for two towing vehicles for patrol vessels, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (6)  $           for extended warranties for the two vehicles in paragraph (5);

     (7)  $           for one floating drive-on dock;

     (8)  $           for six personal flotation devices;

     (9)  $           for six sets of SCUBA gear, including full equipment and training and certifications;

    (10)  $           for thirty-two portable radios;

    (11)  $           for one base station/repeater;

    (12)  $           for thirty-two night-vision devices;

    (13)  $           for thirty-two drones;

    (14)  $           for thirty-two remote pilot certificates for the drones in paragraph (13);

    (15)  $           per year for six mobile surveillance trailers;

    (16)  $           for six quick-deploy license plate recognition camera systems; and

    (17)  $           for installation costs for the items in paragraph (16).

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of land and natural resources for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 3.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 3000.

Report Title:

Equipment; Oahu Branch; Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement; Department of Land and Natural Resources; Appropriation

Description:

Appropriates funds for equipment for the Oahu Branch of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.  Effective 7/1/3000.  (HD1)

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

A BILL FOR AN ACT

relating to conservation enforcement.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that coral reefs are extremely valuable to the people of Hawaii, including coastal protection from erosion due to rising sea levels and larger ocean swells as the ocean warms; sand production that replenishes beaches; and fisheries, recreation, tourism, and spiritual connection.  The legislature further finds that many reefs around the island of Oahu are widely known to be among the most degraded in Hawaii, due to historically poor land use practices that buried corals with silt run-off and smothered corals with seaweeds fertilized by leaching sewage and fertilizer run-off.  The legislature also finds that warmer ocean temperatures are now causing more frequent and severe coral bleaching events that kill corals and are predicted to be annual events by about 2040.  Ocean acidification and other pollutants also adversely affect corals.

     The legislature additionally finds that one of the most effective ways to help corals withstand and recover from present and future threats is to ensure the existence of many herbivorous fishes on Hawaii's reefs, especially parrotfishes (uhu), surgeonfishes (kala and others), and chubs (nenue).  These fishes are known to crop seaweeds that would otherwise smother corals, providing space on the reefs for new corals to grow, especially after coral bleaching events.  The population of herbivorous fishes around Oahu is by far the lowest in Hawaii.

     In response, the board of land and natural resources adopted statewide herbivore fishing rules in December 2023.  However, enforcement of these rules, which is the responsibility of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources, has been particularly difficult around Oahu because:

     (1)  Fishing intensity is much greater on Oahu than on the other islands;

     (2)  Division of conservation and resources enforcement officers have been diverted to law enforcement duties on land due to recent increases in violent crime; and

     (3)  Most poaching of herbivores occurs at night, which poses an extreme challenge to the several division of conservation and resources enforcement officers available for marine night patrols, especially given the lack of needed equipment.

     Therefore, the purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds for equipment for the Oahu branch of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources.

     SECTION 2.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $4,974,040 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 for equipment for the Oahu branch of the division of conservation and resources enforcement of the department of land and natural resources, to be allocated as follows:

     (1)  $800,000 for two maritime enforcement patrol vessels, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (2)  $50,000 for two patrol watercrafts, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (3)  $50,000 for shipment costs for the items in paragraphs (1) and (2);

     (4)  $3,040,000 for thirty-two police marked patrol vehicles, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (5)  $206,000 for two towing vehicles for patrol vessels, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (6)  $10,000 for extended warranties for the two vehicles in paragraph (5);

     (7)  $14,000 for one floating drive-on dock;

     (8)  $1,800 for six personal flotation devices;

     (9)  $36,000 for six sets of SCUBA gear, including full equipment and training and certifications;

    (10)  $224,000 for thirty-two portable radios;

    (11)  $5,000 for one base station/repeater;

    (12)  $128,000 for thirty-two night-vision devices;

    (13)  $128,000 for thirty-two drones;

    (14)  $5,600 for thirty-two remote pilot certificates for the drones in paragraph (13);

    (15)  $215,640 per year for six mobile surveillance trailers;

    (16)  $48,000 for six quick-deploy license plate recognition camera systems; and

    (17)  $12,000 for installation costs for the items in paragraph (16).

     SECTION 3.  The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of land and natural resources for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 4.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2025.

Report Title:

Equipment; Oahu Branch; Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement; Department of Land and Natural Resources; Appropriation

Description:

Appropriates funds for equipment for the Oahu Branch of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.

CONFERENCE COMMITTEE REP. NO. 109

Honolulu, Hawaii

                 , 2025

RE:    H.B. No. 506

       H.D. 1

       S.D. 2

       C.D. 1

Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura

Speaker, House of Representatives

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Madam and Sir:

     Your Committee on Conference on the disagreeing vote of the House of Representatives to the amendments proposed by the Senate in H.B. No. 506, H.D. 1, S.D. 2, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CONSERVATION ENFORCEMENT,"

having met, and after full and free discussion, has agreed to recommend and does recommend to the respective Houses the final passage of this bill in an amended form.

     The purpose of this measure is to appropriate funds for equipment, personnel, and other costs of the Oahu Branch of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

     Your Committee on Conference has amended this measure by:

     (1)  Reverting to the H.D. 1 version; and

     (2)  Further amending this measure by:

          (A)  Inserting an appropriation amount of $4,974,040 and allocation amounts for the specified equipment; and

          (B)  Changing its effective date to July 1, 2025.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the managers of your Committee on Conference that is attached to this report, your Committee on Conference is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 506, H.D. 1, S.D. 2, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Final Reading in the form attached hereto as H.B. No. 506, H.D. 1, S.D. 2, C.D. 1.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the managers:

STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1707

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:    H.B. No. 506

       H.D. 1

       S.D. 2

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Ways and Means, to which was referred H.B. No. 506, H.D. 1, S.D. 1, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CONSERVATION ENFORCEMENT,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to appropriate moneys for equipment to the Oahu Branch of the Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Conservation and Resources Management.

     Your Committee received written comments in support of this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Conservation Council of Hawaii, Environmental Caucus of the Democratic Party of Hawaii, Hawaii Ocean Legislative Task Force, Hawaii Reef and Ocean Coalition, Kuaaina Ulu Auamo, Na Kama Kai, Nature Conservancy, and numerous individuals.

Your Committee finds that the Department of Land and Natural Resources adopted statewide herbivore fishing rules in December 2023 to protect herbivorous fish populations in the State, which are critical for the health of valuable coral reefs.  However, the Department has reported that enforcement of these rules has been particularly challenging around Oahu.  Your Committee further finds that this measure will provide the Department with needed equipment to better enforce the herbivorous fishing rules.

     Having received prior concurrence from the previous subject‑matter committee Chair, your Committee has amended this measure by adding appropriation allocations for personnel costs in Section 2 of the measure.

     If a Committee on Conference is convened on this measure, your Committee respectfully requests that the Committee on Conference consider the following appropriation amounts and allocations for personnel, equipment, and other costs added to Section 2 of the measure:

     (1)  $1,109,520 in both fiscal years for twenty full-time equivalent (20.0 FTE) conservation and resource enforcement officer I positions;

     (2)  $43,452 in both fiscal years for one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) secretary position;

     (3)  $550,000 in both fiscal years for lodging and transportation costs;

     (4)  $300,000 in both fiscal years for academy tuition costs;

     (5)  $1,041,931 for education and training for the twenty full-time equivalent (20.0 FTE) conservation and resource enforcement officer I positions described in paragraph (1);

     (6)  $97,200 for uniforms and gear for the twenty full-time equivalent (20.0 FTE) conservation and resource enforcement officer I positions described in paragraph (1);

     (7)  $5,000 for miscellaneous office supplies;

     (8)  $500,000 for equipment for the twenty full-time equivalent (20.0 FTE) conservation and resource enforcement officer I positions described in paragraph (1);

     (9)  $15,000 for furniture and workspace set-up;

     (7)  $5,000 for information technology equipment; and

     (8)  $1,300,000 for enforcement vehicles for the twenty full‑time equivalent (20.0 FTE) conservation and resource enforcement officer I positions described in paragraph (1).

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Ways and Means that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 506, H.D. 1, S.D. 1, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Third Reading in the form attached hereto as H.B. No. 506, H.D. 1, S.D. 2.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Ways and Means,

STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1213

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:    H.B. No. 506

       H.D. 1

       S.D. 1

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Water and Land, to which was referred H.B. No. 506, H.D. 1, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CONSERVATION ENFORCEMENT,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to appropriate funds for equipment for the Oahu Branch of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

     Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources; The Nature Conservancy, Hawaiʻi and Palmyra; Kuaʻāina Ulu ʻAuamo; Mālama Pūpūkea-Waimea; Na Kama Kai; Hawaiʻi Ocean Legislative Task Force; Hawaii Reef and Ocean Coalition; and eighteen individuals.

     Your Committee finds that robust populations of coral reef herbivores are essential to restoring and preserving the State's precious coral reefs.  Your Committee further finds that the populations of herbivorous fishes around Oahu are the lowest in the State.  Your Committee also finds that although the Department of Land and Natural Resources adopted rules in December 2023 to protect herbivorous fish populations in the State, it has been difficult to enforce these rules around Oahu because the Oahu Branch of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) is not adequately staffed or equipped.  Accordingly, this measure will ensure that the Oahu Branch of the Division of Conservative and Resource Enforcement is well-equipped to protect herbivorous fish populations around the island of Oahu.

Your Committee has amended this measure by:

     (1)  Inserting an effective date of July 1, 2040, to encourage further discussion; and

     (2)  Making technical, nonsubstantive amendments for the purposes of clarity and consistency.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Water and Land that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 506, H.D. 1, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Second Reading in the form attached hereto as H.B. No. 506, H.D. 1, S.D. 1, and be referred to your Committee on Ways and Means.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Water and Land,

STAND. COM. REP. NO.  1153

Honolulu, Hawaii

                , 2025

RE:   H.B. No. 506

      H.D. 1

Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura

Speaker, House of Representatives

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Madame:

     Your Committee on Finance, to which was referred H.B. No. 506, H.D. 1, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CONSERVATION ENFORCEMENT,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose of this measure is to appropriate funds for the Oahu branch of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

     Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Hawai‘i Ocean Legislative Task Force; Mālama Pūpūkea-Waimea; Kua‘āina Ulu ‘Auamo; Hawai‘i Reef and Ocean Coalition; Hawai‘i Marine Education and Research Center; Mālama Learning Center; and numerous individuals.  Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Finance that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 506, H.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Third Reading.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Finance,

STAND. COM. REP. NO.  301

Honolulu, Hawaii

                , 2025

RE:   H.B. No. 506

      H.D. 1

Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura

Speaker, House of Representatives

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Madame:

     Your Committee on Water & Land, to which was referred H.B. No. 506 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO CONSERVATION ENFORCEMENT,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose of this measure is to appropriate funds for the Oahu branch of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

     Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources; Mālama Pūpūkea-Waimea; Hawai‘i Ocean Legislative Task Force; Kua‘āina Ulu ‘Auamo; and seven individuals.  Your Committee received testimony in opposition to this measure from one individual.  Your Committee received comments on this measure from one individual.

     Your Committee finds that one of the most effective ways to help the State's coral reefs withstand and recover from present and future threats, such as warmer ocean temperatures, pollution, and ocean acidification, is to ensure healthy populations of herbivorous fishes.  Your Committee further finds that although the Board of Land and Natural Resources adopted statewide herbivore fishing rules in December 2023, enforcement of these rules is particularly difficult on the island of Oahu due to a variety of factors, including greater fishing intensity, diversion of conservation and resources enforcement officers, and nighttime poaching activities.  Your Committee believes that providing funding for additional resources will allow the Oahu branch of the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement to better protect the State's herbivorous fish populations.

     Your Committee has amended this measure by:

     (1)  Changing the appropriation and allocations to unspecified amounts;

     (2)  Changing the effective date to July 1, 3000, to encourage further discussion; and

     (3)  Making technical, nonsubstantive amendments for the purposes of clarity, consistency, and style.

     Your Committee respectfully requests your Committee on Finance, should it deliberate on this measure, to consider an appropriation amount of $4,974,040 to be allocated as follows:

     (1)  $800,000 for two maritime enforcement patrol vessels, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (2)  $50,000 for two patrol watercrafts, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (3)  $50,000 for shipment costs for the items in paragraphs (1) and (2);

     (4)  $3,040,000 for thirty-two police marked patrol vehicles, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (5)  $206,000 for two towing vehicles for patrol vessels, complete with audible/visual emergency equipment;

     (6)  $10,000 for extended warranties for the two vehicles in paragraph (5);

     (7)  $14,000 for one floating drive-on dock;

     (8)  $1,800 for six personal flotation devices;

     (9)  $36,000 for six sets of SCUBA gear, including full equipment and training and certifications;

     (10) $224,000 for thirty-two portable radios;

     (11) $5,000 for one base station/repeater;

     (12) $128,000 for thirty-two night-vision devices;

     (13) $128,000 for thirty-two drones;

     (14) $5,600 for thirty-two remote pilot certificates for the drones in paragraph (13);

     (15) $215,640 per year for six mobile surveillance trailers;

     (16) $48,000 for six quick-deploy license plate recognition camera systems; and

     (17) $12,000 for installation costs for the items in paragraph (16).

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Water & Land that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 506, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Second Reading in the form attached hereto as H.B. No. 506, H.D. 1, and be referred to your Committee on Finance.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Water & Land,