Hawaii Senate Bill SB1082

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/25
• Refer: 1/23/25
• Refer: 1/21/26

Caption

RELATING TO THE STATE SHRIMP.

Summary

SB1082 designates the ʻōpae ʻula (Halocaridina rubra), also known as the red shrimp, as the official shrimp of the State of Hawaii. The bill amends Chapter 5 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to add a new state symbol and takes effect upon approval. The bill’s findings explain that ʻōpae ʻula is endemic to Hawaii’s anchialine pools, or wai ʻōpae, which are culturally significant ecosystems. The legislature states that recognizing the species as the state shrimp is intended to raise public awareness and support conservation of anchialine pool habitats statewide. The bill also expressly says the designation is not meant to interfere with the traditional harvesting of ʻōpae for use in ʻōpelu fishing.

Impact

SB1082 would add a new section to Chapter 5, Hawaii Revised Statutes, establishing the ʻōpae ʻula as the official shrimp of the State. The practical legal effect is limited to creating a state symbol, but it also reinforces the state’s policy interest in anchialine pool conservation and may be used to support education, outreach, and preservation efforts related to these ecosystems. It does not change harvesting rules or directly regulate fishing practices.

Sentiment

The available context suggests generally positive, noncontroversial support for the bill’s symbolic and conservation goals. The bill was introduced with a clear environmental and cultural preservation rationale, and the report title frames it as a conservation measure tied to anchialine pool ecosystems. No committee transcript or recorded vote information is available showing opposition, and the bill was re-referred to WLA/AEN, indicating continued legislative consideration rather than rejection.

Contention

The main potential point of contention is the relationship between the new state-symbol designation and traditional harvesting practices. The bill anticipates this issue and states that it is not intended to prevent or affect the ongoing practice of harvesting ʻōpae for ʻōpelu fishing. Aside from that clarification, no specific objections, amendments, or opposing arguments are reflected in the available record.