Honorable Calvin K.Y. Say

Speaker, House of Representatives

Twenty-Second State Legislature

Regular Session of 2004

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Water, Land Use, and Hawaiian Affairs, to which was referred H.C.R. No. 223 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this concurrent resolution is to recognize and raise public awareness of the importance of protecting sea turtles by requesting the Governor to declare May 23, 2004 as "Sea Turtle Day" in Hawaii.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources, World Turtle Trust, Honu Project, and four concerned individuals submitted testimony in support of this measure.

Your Committee notes that while this concurrent resolution is well intended, it does not claim to represent or interpret native Hawaiian traditions, customs, or practices where the sea turtle is concerned. Your Committee supports the passage of this concurrent resolution, having agreed with the concept of supporting "Sea Turtle Day."

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Water, Land Use, and Hawaiian Affairs that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of H.C.R. No. 223 and recommends its adoption.