SB1171 amends Hawaii law governing the use of fine meshed nets for plant protection against invasive species. It authorizes the Department of Agriculture to adopt rules allowing the sale and distribution of fine mesh and monofilament netting, while requiring the department to set standards intended to reduce harm to birds and other non-target wildlife. The bill specifically contemplates rules on filament diameter, color, visual cues, and a prohibition on mist-net material designed for bird work.
The bill also directs the Department of Agriculture to create a free netting distribution program for the public to help slow the spread of coconut rhinoceros beetles. The program would provide monofilament netting of an appropriate mesh size at no charge, with the department responsible for distribution and implementation. The measure includes an unspecified general fund appropriation for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support the program, and it is set to take effect on July 1, 2050.
Impact
This bill would expand and clarify the Department of Agriculture’s authority under section 141-17, Hawaii Revised Statutes, by expressly permitting fine meshed nets and monofilament netting for invasive species protection and by directing rulemaking to govern their use and sale. It would also create a new state-run distribution program for free netting aimed at controlling coconut rhinoceros beetles, requiring state expenditures and administrative implementation by the department. The bill affects growers, homeowners, and others seeking plant protection, while also imposing safeguards to protect birds, pollinators, and other beneficial native species.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests generally favorable support for the bill, as it passed the Senate Agriculture and Environment committee unanimously, 4-0, with amendments. The absence of recorded opposition in the provided materials indicates broad agreement on the need for invasive species control and practical tools to protect plants. The amended version also suggests committee members were attentive to refining the bill’s scope and environmental safeguards.
Contention
The main points of contention appear to center on balancing invasive species control with protection of non-target wildlife. The bill explicitly addresses concerns about birds, water contamination, and entanglement of beneficial insects, which indicates those issues were important in discussion or amendment. Another likely point of concern is the use of public funds for a free distribution program and the Department of Agriculture’s responsibility to administer it, though the provided materials do not show recorded opposition. The delayed effective date of July 1, 2050 is also notable, though no explanation is provided in the text.