THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	3179
THIRTY-FIRST LEGISLATURE, 2022
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

relating to the department of land and natural resources.

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

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that the overpopulation of axis deer poses a significant threat to the ecological security and the health of local communities on several islands, especially in Maui County. Axis deer overpopulation and drought conditions on Maui, Molokai, and Lanai have led to widespread numbers of axis deer, which in turn has created a nuisance and threat to the local community.

The legislature further finds that better integration of state management efforts and local hunting practices would allow for a more effective response to axis deer overpopulation.

The purpose of this Act is to establish a pilot program for the department of land and natural resources division of forestry and wildlife to issue funds to licensed hunters for feral herd population management.

SECTION 2. The department of land and natural resources division of forestry and wildlife shall conduct a pilot program for feral herd management on the islands of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai pursuant to the following:

(1) The division of forestry and wildlife shall issue funds to licensed hunters at a per unit rate to be determined by the division;

(2) The division of forestry and wildlife shall establish rules regarding:

(A) Lands on which hunters may operate in cooperation with private land owners;

(B) Gender, size, condition, and species that may be targeted;

(C) Bag limits for hunters to claim per unit rates;

(D) Time periods in which hunters may operate; and

(E) Any other parameters as necessary; and

(3) The division of forestry and wildlife shall consult with the department of agriculture.

SECTION 3. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $500,000 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2022-2023 for the division of forestry and wildlife to establish a feral herd population management pilot program on the islands of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai.

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

SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2022.

INTRODUCED BY:

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Report Title:

Department of Land and Natural Resources; Maui County; Herd Populations; Pilot Program; Appropriation

Description:

Directs the Department of Land and Natural Resources to establish a feral herd management program under the Division of Forestry and Wildlife to manage axis deer populations in Maui County. Makes an appropriation.

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.