Informing the Legislature that on June 26, 2026, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB177 SD1 HD1 CD1 (ACT 165).

This bill, signed into law by Governor Josh Green on June 26, 2026, establishes a new process for importing and transporting aquatic livestock in Hawaii to protect the state's natural environment. It requires the Division of Animal Industry to create science-based rules that mandate pre-arrival disease testing, point inspections, and post-arrival monitoring for all imported fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Under the new framework, any aquatic animals found to pose a biological risk must undergo mandatory quarantine, remediation, or depopulation to prevent invasive species from establishing themselves. Additionally, the bill defines key terms like "biocontainment" and directs the state to develop standards for facility design and operational safety to manage potential hazards. The legislation also expands the duties of the state's aquaculture program to include developing risk-based evaluation categories and seeking federal funding for industry growth.