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Committee narrows SB2975 to Oahu and advances SB2084 carrying-capacity work for MLCDs
Summary
The committee advanced changes to Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD) law: it recommended narrowing SB2975’s closure authority to Oahu Pupukea and passed SB2084 to require carrying-capacity studies; testifiers warned the work is data-intensive and costly and urged inclusion of cultural metrics.
Two related measures on Marine Life Conservation Districts (MLCDs) — SB2975 (authority to close portions of MLCDs) and SB2084 (a carrying-capacity program) — moved forward after extensive testimony about overtourism, data needs and cultural considerations.
DLNR said the closure authority in SB2975 would be a management tool to implement recommendations from Act 31 carrying-capacity studies (for example, Pupukea) to address emergency conditions such as spawning events or storm damage. Several testifiers urged the committee to avoid applying a broad, statewide closure authority that would inadvertently regulate sustainable local practices; after hearing concerns the committee adopted an amendment narrowing SB2975’s application to Oahu for the current stage of consideration.
SB2084 would require DLNR to carry out carrying-capacity studies for MLCDs. Supporters described carrying capacity as a scientific, place-specific exercise that can include biological, social and cultural metrics. Denise Antolini and other community groups referenced a recent Act 31 study the group completed that cost about $290,000 over three years and covered a small portion of one MLCD, underscoring the budget and technical resources required.
Why it matters: MLCDs protect nearshore areas valued for cultural uses, fisheries and tourism; testifiers said data-driven carrying-capacity work can inform adaptive management, seasonal closures and restoration steps but will need funding and local collaboration to include cultural and community priorities.
Committee action and next steps: the committee recommended passing SB2975 with amendments that narrow its scope (Oahu/Pupukea focus) and to pass SB2084 with amendments that clarify study design and stakeholder involvement. The committee noted the need to protect subsistence and commercial fishing rights and to involve local organizations in study design and implementation.
