HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.R. NO.	129
TWENTY-SEVENTH LEGISLATURE, 2014
STATE OF HAWAII

HOUSE RESOLUTION

URGING the department of land and natural resources to ADOPT rules to manage manta ray dive sites.

     WHEREAS, the manta ray night dive is a popular activity in West Hawaii, and visitors visit Hawaii Island for the purpose of participating in this activity; and

     WHEREAS, these dives occur at specific locations where manta rays are known to frequent; and

     WHEREAS, the popularity of this activity has grown over the years and now there are many boats present at these sites at the same time creating a dangerous situation; and

     WHEREAS, if an accident occurred, it would be not only tragic, but harmful to the diving industry, and a potential liability to the State; and

     WHEREAS, ensuring the safety of workers, visitors, and manta rays, and ensuring a good visitor experience is in the best interests of all; now, therefore,

     BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the Twenty-seventh Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2014, that the Department of Land and Natural Resources is urged to adopt rules to better manage specific manta ray dive sites to ensure that safety and order is maintained; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a certified copy of this Resolution be transmitted to the Chairperson of the Board of Land and Natural Resources.

OFFERED BY:

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Report Title: 

Manta Rays; Department of Land and Natural Resources; Rules