THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	2377
THIRTIETH LEGISLATURE, 2020
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

relating to axis deer.

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

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that the population of the chital deer, also known as the axis deer, is growing exponentially and causing damage to farms and ranches in Maui county. Axis deer are known pests of agriculture, and of native and culturally significant plants, many of which are endangered. The legislature further finds that the growing axis deer population in Maui threatens animals in the forest and native plants that are vital to maintaining critical watershed areas and the county's efforts to promote food sustainability and local economies.

The legislature further finds that, while the axis deer may be an invasive species, they significantly contribute to the subsistence hunting lifestyle and cultural practices of the residents of islands of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai. Accordingly, available resources should be focused on the management of the axis deer population to mitigate their negative environmental and food production impacts.

The purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds to properly manage, but not eradicate, the axis deer population in Maui county.

SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $3,500,000 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2020-2021 for activities relating to the proper management, but not eradication, of the axis deer population in Maui county.

The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of land and natural resources for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2020.

INTRODUCED BY:

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Report Title:

Axis Deer; Population Management; Maui County; Appropriation

Description:

Appropriates funds to DLNR for the proper management, rather than eradication, of the axis deer population in Maui county.

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