SB1457 amends Hawaii Revised Statutes to enhance ocean user safety by defining water sports equipment and authorizing the board to adopt interim.

SB1457 amends Hawaii Revised Statutes by defining "water sports equipment" as devices used in water for pleasure, recreation, or sports, excluding those primarily for transportation. The bill grants the board authority to adopt rules promoting ocean user safety, including creating safe zones for free divers and swimmers and stricter enforcement of boating regulations around swim zone buoys. The board can also adopt interim rules for up to 24 months to address commercial and recreational use of water sports equipment. Penalties apply for violations of these rules.

SB1457 amends Hawaii Revised Statutes to enhance ocean user safety by defining water sports equipment and authorizing the board to adopt interim.

SB1457 amends Hawaii Revised Statutes by defining "water sports equipment" as devices used in water for pleasure, recreation, or sports, excluding those primarily for transportation. The bill grants the board authority to adopt rules promoting ocean user safety, including creating safe zones for free divers and swimmers and stricter enforcement of boating regulations around swim zone buoys. The board can also adopt interim rules for up to 24 months to address commercial and recreational use of water sports equipment. Penalties apply for violations of these rules.