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Aquarium fishers and industry groups tell committee a ban would harm livelihoods
Summary
Several aquarium fishers and industry representatives opposed HB2101 at the hearing, saying HEPA/EIS processes were completed, that past management demonstrated sustainability in parts of the state, and that a ban would remove a source of local livelihood.
Multiple fishers and industry representatives told the committee they oppose HB2101 because they say the fishery has undergone environmental review and demonstrated sustainable management in some areas.
Eric Monnick, who identified himself as "an aquarium fisherman," said the bill is a "user conflict issue" and urged lawmakers not to "pick one user over another," arguing for balance between user groups. Several other fishers, including David Ramos and Jim Lovell, said they participated in HEPA/EIS processes and characterized the bill as punitive after they complied with review requirements. Jim Lovell cited a 20-year report he said shows increases in some yellow tang populations and questioned the claim that the industry causes depletion.
Opponents also raised enforcement concerns and disputed some scientific claims presented by proponents. Some asked why earlier environmental reviews would be disregarded and argued that a ban would harm small local businesses and families who relied on aquarium collection for income.
