Bill

HB 345

RELATING TO THE STATE SHRIMP.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 15 co-sponsors

HB 345 protects Hawaii's native ʻŌpae ʻUla shrimp by enforcing habitat conservation, regulating development, and promoting public awareness for ecosystem sustainability.

Act 071, 05/19/2025 (Gov. Msg. No. 1171).

#anchialinepoolecosystems #conservation #stateshrimp #waiʻōpae #ʻōpaeʻula

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Bill Summary · HB 345

Summary of Bill HB 345: Relating to the State Shrimp

Overview

Bill Number: HB 345
Title: Relating to the State Shrimp
Status: Act 071, effective May 19, 2025
Introduced: January 16, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Anchialine Pool Ecosystems, Conservation, State Shrimp, Wai ʻŌpae, ʻŌpae ʻUla

HB 345 aims to enhance the conservation efforts for the state shrimp, specifically the species known as ʻŌpae ʻUla, which is native to the unique anchialine pool ecosystems found in Hawaii. This bill recognizes the ecological significance of these shrimp and aims to protect their habitats.

Key Provisions

Conservation Measures: The bill establishes specific conservation measures for the ʻŌpae ʻUla, including habitat protection and management strategies to ensure the sustainability of the species.
Regulatory Framework: It provides a framework for the regulation of activities that may impact the anchialine pool ecosystems, including restrictions on development and pollution.
Public Awareness Campaigns: The bill mandates the implementation of educational programs to raise public awareness about the importance of the ʻŌpae ʻUla and its habitat.

Impact

Ecological Impact: The bill is expected to positively impact the biodiversity of Hawaii's anchialine pool ecosystems by ensuring the protection of the ʻŌpae ʻUla and its habitat.
Community Engagement: Local communities and stakeholders will be involved in conservation efforts, fostering a sense of stewardship for these unique ecosystems.
Regulatory Compliance: Developers and businesses operating near anchialine pools will need to comply with new regulations aimed at protecting these environments.

Procedural Timeline

January 16, 2025: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.
February 11, 2025: Passed Second Reading as amended and referred to the Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA) committee.
April 30, 2025: Passed Final Reading in the House and Senate with amendments.
May 19, 2025: Signed into law as Act 071.

Related Legislation

Companion Bill: SB 1082

This summary provides a clear understanding of HB 345, its intent, key provisions, and the anticipated impact on Hawaii's unique ecosystems. The bill reflects a commitment to environmental conservation and community involvement in protecting the state's natural heritage.

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