SB2017

THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	2017
TWENTY-FOURTH LEGISLATURE, 2008
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO FERAL CATS.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that the State continues to face an overpopulation of feral cats--that is, tame cats that have been abandoned by irresponsible owners and the progeny of these cats which are often unsocialized to human contact. The problems attributed to this cat population include public health risk and nuisance to humans, unchecked reproduction, and predation of birds. Feral cats are known to transmit diseases such as ringworm, pinkeye, parasitic worms, Lyme disease, and toxoplasmosis. Such diseases may be spread through direct contact, feces, or fleas and ticks. Further, the mating behaviors of unneutered feral cats can lead to excessive noise and male urine spray smells.

Feral cat colonies also endanger the State's native bird population, and food left after public feedings of feral cats may attract other native bird predators such as rodents and mongoose. The purpose of this Act is to prohibit the feeding of feral cats in public areas and to impose a fine of up to $1,000 for such a violation.

SECTION 2. Chapter 142, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"§142- Feeding feral cats; penalty. No person shall feed any feral cat in areas accessible to the general public.

Any person who violates this section shall be fined not more than $1,000 for each separate offense. Each date of violation shall constitute a separate offense. Any action taken to impose or collect the penalty provided for in this section shall be considered a civil action."

SECTION 3. New statutory material is underscored.

SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2008.

INTRODUCED BY:	_____________________________