Informing the Legislature that on July 8, 2024, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB2478 HD1 SD1 CD1 (ACT 216).

This bill authorizes the Governor of Hawaii to join the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission, an interstate group dedicated to managing ocean fishery resources. By adding a new chapter to state law, the legislation enables Hawaii to appoint representatives to the commission and cooperate with other states on sustainable fishing practices. The compact aims to prevent waste of marine, shell, and anadromous fish while explicitly prohibiting member states from fixing prices or creating monopolies. Once ratified by Congress and signed by at least one other state, the agreement will allow Hawaii to participate in joint conservation programs for Pacific Ocean fisheries.