The Hawaii Ocean Stewardship Special Fund was proposed in the Hawaii House of Representatives this year, and the new fee will go into effect on the first day of 2024 with the goal of contributing to the restoration, protection and management of the state’s marine resources.The law establishes a user fee of $1 per person, collected by commercial ocean operators providing everything from sunset cruises to snorkel and scuba excursions.
Depending on tourism numbers, the new fee is expected to generate from $14 million to $30 million over 15 years, according to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.
Additionally, House Bill 1023 was signed into law, requiring non-Hawaii residents to purchase a marine recreational fishing license in order to fish. Revenues generated by the sale of licenses will go toward sport fish management.
The two bills were among nine signed into law that are targeted at protecting the marine environment.