As a dedicated cat colony manager caring for 200 cats on Oahu, I am alarmed by the proposed House Bill 1735 in Hawaiʻi. This legislation, while perhaps well-intentioned, could significantly weaken the protections against animal cruelty in our state.

House Bill 1735 seeks to introduce exemptions to Hawaiʻi’s existing animal cruelty laws, specifically for predator control activities. The motivations are to safeguard property, agriculture, or native biodiversity. However, the language of the bill is worryingly broad, granting permissions that may lead to inhumane practices such as trapping, poisoning, or shooting of animals. Without the stringent protections currently provided by our cruelty laws, many animals could suffer unnecessary harm.

This bill could have severe implications not only for the feline populations, which I personally care for, but also for various other animal species. Hawaiʻi has a rich biodiversity, and unchecked methods of predator control could harm innocent wildlife and disrupt the ecological balance.

Across the nation, animal welfare organizations stress the importance of humane, non-lethal methods of predator management. Various studies and real-world implementations affirm that humane practices can effectively balance ecological needs while safeguarding animal welfare.

Significantly, bills like this deter the ongoing efforts of individuals and organizations who work tirelessly to protect and manage animal populations responsibly. Many of us volunteer endless hours and resources to ensure that animals, be it beloved pets or wildlife, are treated with respect and humanity.

Therefore, I urge the lawmakers and citizens of Hawaiʻi to reconsider the implications of House Bill 1735. We must advocate for amendments that retain the humane principles central to our current animal cruelty laws, ensuring methods of predator control do not cause unnecessary harm.

Please lend your voice to oppose this bill in its current form. By signing this petition, you can help maintain vital protections for animals and ensure our state's policies reflect our collective commitment to compassion and humane treatment. Let us stand together in safeguarding the dignity of all animals in Hawaiʻi. Your signature matters.