HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
H.B. NO.
1423
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2025
STATE OF HAWAII
A BILL FOR AN ACT
Relating to Hanalei Bay.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that Hanalei Bay is known for its character as a quiet recreational area for families and visitors to participate in ocean activities, including surfing, swimming, paddle boarding, sailing, and kayaking. The legislature further finds that there has been a growing increase in the number of large vessels, including yachts and ships, mooring in Hanalei Bay, posing a risk to the health and safety of individuals and families participating in ocean activities in the bay.
Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to:
(1) Preserve the quiet recreational character of Hanalei Bay; and
(2) Protect the safety of residents and visitors who use the bay for water activities;
by restricting the size of vessels permitted to enter Hanalei Bay.
SECTION 2. Chapter 200, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part II to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"[Underlined: §200- ] [Underlined: Hanalei Bay; vessel restrictions.] [Underlined: No vessel more than seventy-five feet in length shall enter Hanalei Bay waters, the boundary of which shall be defined by the board pursuant to chapter 91; provided that this section shall not apply to vessels operated by a federal, state, or county agency.]"
SECTION 3. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.
INTRODUCED BY:
_____________________________
Report Title:
Board of Land and Natural Resources; Hanalei Bay; Vessel Restriction
Description:
Prohibits vessels longer than 75 feet from entering Hanalei Bay. Exempts vessels operated by a federal, state, or county agency.
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