From the Hawaii Tribune-Herald:

A controversial bill to require holders of aquarium fish permits to specify all species collected, and in what collection areas, has been deferred indefinitely.

During Tuesday’s hearing in Honolulu, members of the Committee on Water and Land and Committee on Energy and Environment voted to hold Senate Bill 26, of which the testimony for and against was nearly equal. More than 208 people submitted written and in-person comments.

If the bill is enacted, the issuance of renewable aquarium fish permits for the collecting of indigenous species would be prohibited unless a population survey, conducted by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources or credible third party, has determined such a harvest is sustainable in the specified collection area.

Several testifiers urged lawmakers to add strong definitions for the words “sustainable” and “collection area” used in the bill. Such explanations would address ambiguity, as well as ensure protection for the complex ecosystems. Read the full story.

And here’s the latest in other neighbor isle gov’t and politics:

Lawmakers: Let county use fuel tax funds for private roads

HTA grants boost Big Isle tourist activities

County moves against Coco Palms

Kawa Bay security comes with a price

Park plans working cultural village at Kaloko-Honokohau

Kihei man to repay more than $131K in plea deal

Proposed one-stop Kauai recycling center at least 8 years away

Fugitive Task Force arrests Kauai suspect

Mamalahoa Highway Bypass now open 24 hours a day

Laser forces Coast Guard to abort Kahului training mission

Photo courtesy BFS Man.