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GM 1203

Informing the Legislature that on June 5, 2026, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB2207 HD2 SD2 CD1 (ACT 103).

2026 Regular Session

Allows fine mesh nets (including monofilament) to protect plants from the coconut rhinoceros beetle, with safeguards to minimize impact on non-target wildlife.

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Bill Summary · GM 1203

Comprehensive Summary: HB 2207, HD 2, SD 2, CD 1 (ACT 103) – Hawaii (Session 2026)

Main purpose and intent

  • Enacted as Act 103 on June 5, 2026, the bill amends Hawaii law to authorize and regulate the use, sale, and distribution of fine mesh nets (including monofilament nets) for protecting plants from invasive species, specifically the coconut rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros).
  • The goal is to enhance plant protection and support the state’s agricultural economy, cultural heritage, and ecosystems by allowing targeted use of protective netting where appropriate, while establishing safeguards to avoid non-target impacts (birds, pollinators, native wildlife).

Key provisions and changes

  • Section 1 – Purpose and policy

    • Recognizes the coconut rhinoceros beetle as a threat to palm species and related economic and ecological interests.
    • Authorizes the use of monofilament and other fine mesh nets for protecting plants from invasive species under specified conditions.
    • Directs the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity to establish rules enabling the sale and distribution of fine mesh nets (including certain monofilament netting) in the state for beetle interdiction.

  • Section 2 – Statutory amendment to §141-17 (Fine mesh nets; invasive species; permissible; rules)

    • Amends existing statute to explicitly permit fine mesh nets (including monofilament) for protecting plants against invasive species, as determined by the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity.
    • Requires nets to be used in a manner unlikely to entangle birds, become dislodged and enter waterways, or entangle/disturb native and beneficial wildlife (e.g., pollinators, ladybugs, lacewings).
    • Mandates the department to adopt rules under chapter 91 establishing:
    • Filament diameter, color, and other design specifications.
    • Visual cues to prevent non-target entanglement.
    • Prohibitions on using mist net materials intended for bird work.
    • Authorization for distribution and sale of fine mesh nets (including monofilament) solely for the protection of plants from the coconut rhinoceros beetle.

  • Section 3 – Repeal/technical edits

    • Repeals and updates statutory material as needed to reflect the new framework (formatting conventions noted: new material underscored).

  • Section 4 – Effective date

    • The act takes effect upon its approval (i.e., immediately upon signing into law).

Affected parties and impacts

  • Primary beneficiaries:
    • Plant guardians and palm growers (agricultural sectors relying on palm species) who need protective measures against the coconut rhinoceros beetle.
    • Conservation and biosecurity programs seeking tools to manage invasive species without harming non-target wildlife.
  • Regulated and implementing body:
    • Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, which must develop and enforce rules governing the sale, distribution, and usage of fine mesh nets, including monofilament netting.
  • Secondary stakeholders:
    • Net manufacturers and retailers specializing in agricultural protection measures.
    • Environmental and wildlife groups interested in safeguards to minimize unintended ecological impacts.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Legislative history:
    • HB 2207, HD 2, SD 2, CD 1 passed the Hawaii House and Senate in May 2026 and was signed into law by the Governor on June 5, 2026 (Act 103).
  • Implementation:
    • The Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity is directed to adopt rules under Chapter 91 to implement the new provisions, including technical specifications and sale/distribution policies.
  • Effective date:
    • Act takes effect upon the Governor’s approval (June 5, 2026).

Notes for readers

  • The act explicitly narrows the permissible use of fine mesh nets to plant protection against the coconut rhinoceros beetle, with explicit safeguards to minimize harm to birds, pollinators, and other wildlife.
  • It builds on prior authority (e.g., Act 184, Session Laws of 2024) by expanding permissible nets beyond bird-related uses and clarifying regulatory pathways for sale and distribution.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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