Informing the Legislature that on May 27, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB849 SD1 HD2 (ACT 098).

This bill (SB849, Act 098) strengthens protections for Hawaii's native wildlife by specifically prohibiting the intentional taking, harming, or killing of the Hawaiian hawk ("'io"). It increases penalties for harming native species, classifying second offenses as class C felonies with fines ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, compared to $2,500-$5,000 for first offenses. The law directly affects individuals or entities harming the 'io or other native aquatic life, wildlife, and land plants. These changes aim to deter threats like habitat loss and illegal hunting through enhanced legal consequences.