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GM 1204

Informing the Legislature that on May 27, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1220 HD1 SD1 CD1 (ACT 104).

2025 Regular Session

Bill GM 1204 notifies that Act 104 allocates $200,000 to remove the invasive majano anemone from Kaneohe Bay, protecting coral reefs and marine biodiversity.

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Bill Summary · GM 1204

Summary of Bill GM 1204: Informing the Legislature of Act 104

Bill Number: GM 1204
Title: Informing the Legislature that on May 27, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1220 HD1 SD1 CD1 (ACT 104)
Status: Received
Introduced: May 27, 2025
Classification: Proclamation
Subject: Act 104

Purpose and Intent

Bill GM 1204 serves as a formal notification to the Legislature of the State of Hawaii regarding the signing of House Bill 1220, which has been enacted as Act 104. The primary purpose of Act 104 is to address the invasive species known as the majano anemone (Anemonia majano), which poses a significant threat to the marine ecosystems, particularly in Kaneohe Bay.

Key Provisions

  1. Identification of the Invasive Species:

    • The majano anemone has been identified as an invasive species that has spread significantly in Kaneohe Bay, covering approximately 950 square yards.
    • It competes aggressively with native coral species, particularly the endemic finger coral (Porites compressa), and has the potential to degrade reef health and marine biodiversity.

  2. Funding Appropriation:

    • The Act appropriates $200,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027. This funding is designated to support the Division of Aquatic Resources in its efforts to remove the majano anemone from Kaneohe Bay.
    • The funds will cover personnel, materials, equipment, data management, analysis, and community outreach efforts.

  3. Implementation Strategy:

    • The Division of Aquatic Resources will implement a multi-phase removal strategy that includes chemical control, physical removal, and smothering practices to effectively manage and mitigate the spread of the majano anemone.

  4. Effective Date:

    • The provisions of Act 104 will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Impact

  • Environmental Impact:

    • The removal of the majano anemone is crucial for preserving the health of Kaneohe Bay’s coral reefs and maintaining the biodiversity of marine life in the area.
    • Successful implementation of the removal strategy is expected to restore vital ecosystem services that coastal communities rely on.

  • Community Engagement:

    • The Act emphasizes outreach and community engagement, indicating a collaborative approach to managing invasive species and fostering public awareness about marine conservation.

Conclusion

Bill GM 1204 serves as an important legislative notification regarding the enactment of Act 104, which aims to combat the invasive majano anemone in Kaneohe Bay. Through the appropriation of funds and a strategic removal plan, the Act seeks to protect Hawaii's delicate marine ecosystems and ensure the sustainability of its coral reefs.

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

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