Bill
SCR 165
SCR 165 requests DLNR to adopt rules lifting the Lapakahi MLCD fishing moratorium and guide sustainable reintroduction, balancing ecological recovery with local livelihoods.
SCR 165 – Summary
Overview
- Type: Concurrent Resolution
- Title: REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES TO ADOPT RULES LIFTING THE MORATORIUM ON FISHING IN THE LAPAKAHI MARINE LIFE CONSERVATION DISTRICT
- Status: Referred to WTL (Water, Land, and Ocean Resources)
- Introduced: March 7, 2025
- Companion: SR 134 (companion bill)
Purpose and Intent
- The resolution asks DLNR (specifically the Division of Aquatic Resources and the Board of Land and Natural Resources) to adopt rules that lift the existing fishing moratorium within the Lapakahi Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD).
- It frames lifting the moratorium as a path to reintroduce sustainable fishing practices, support the local economy, and involve the community in ongoing resource management.
Background and Rationale
- DAR previously imposed a fishing moratorium around Lapakahi State Historical Park to restore overfished species, balance ecological health, and honor the region’s cultural/historical significance.
- DAR’s studies indicate rebound in fish populations and improvements in coral health since the moratorium.
- The resolution notes negative economic and livelihood impacts on local fishers and communities dependent on these waters.
- It asserts that recent assessments show key species have recovered and that sustainable reintroduction of fishing, under established rules, would protect resources while benefiting the local economy.
Key Provisions
- Directive: The Senate and House concur to request DLNR to adopt rules lifting the fishing moratorium in the Lapakahi MLCD.
- Sustainable Framework: The rules should govern reintroduced fishing under sustainable management protocols to ensure continued resource viability.
- Community Involvement: The resolution highlights the importance of local input and collaboration with DLNR in the management of the MLCD.
Affected Parties and Impacts
- Local fishers and fishing-related businesses in and around Lapakahi.
- Coastal communities that rely on the Lapakahi MLCD for livelihoods.
- DLNR, DAR, and BLNR would implement and regulate the new rules.
- Potential long-term benefits include renewed fishing opportunities, economic activity, and continued resource stewardship.
Procedural and Timeline Details
- The measure is a policy request, not a statute, and directs DLNR to proceed with rulemaking.
- Once adopted, the rules would establish the framework for regulated fishing within the MLCD.
- The concurrent resolution is transmitted to the DLNR chairperson and DAR administrator if approved.
Relationship to Related Legislation
- SR 134 is a companion resolution, likely conveying similar intent in aSenate-only form for coordination.
Notes
- As a concurrent resolution, SCR 165 expresses legislative intent and directs agency action but does not itself create new law; the actual rulemaking would be accomplished by DLNR under existing statutory authority.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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