THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	403
THIRTY-SECOND LEGISLATURE, 2023
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

relating to coral.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that Hawaii's coral reefs are vital to the State's marine ecosystems and are home to many endemic and native species. Designated as the official gem of the State by Act 9, Session Laws of Hawaii (1987), black coral played a significant role in marketing campaigns showcasing Hawaii's beauty. The promotion of black coral led tourists and residents alike to covet black coral jewelry, curios, and other products to embrace as treasured family heirlooms or gifts that represent Hawaii's natural beauty. However, the long-term promotion of Hawaii and its natural resources, including black coral, has led to increased commercial use of coral, contributing to the decline and degradation of the State's coral reefs.

The legislature further finds that the overharvesting of coral has led to concerns that, while legally protected, the sale, import, and export of coral jewelry in the State continues to threaten coral reefs and reef ecosystems in Hawaii. While the legislature attempted to address overharvesting of coral in H.B. No. 1988, H.D. 2, S.D. 3 (2022), the ongoing marketing and promotion of black coral as the official state gem to both tourists and residents must be addressed to prevent further harm to vital coral reefs and reef ecosystems in the State's waters.

Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to remove the designation of black coral as the official gem of the State.

SECTION 2. Section 5-15, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is repealed.

["[§5-15] State gem. The black coral is established and designated as the official gem of the State."]

SECTION 3. Statutory material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken.

SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

INTRODUCED BY:

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Report Title:

Black Coral; Hawaii State Gem; Repeal

Description:

Repeals the designation of black coral as the official gem of the State.

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