Maui Kupuna Push for Passage of Ocean Safety Bill

West Maui waters. File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

The group Na Kupuna O Maui, continues its push for the passage of SB 2933 relating to Ocean Safety.

Lead supporters of the measure want the state to step up in the protection and safety of ocean users in near-shore waters.

The proposed legislation comes following the death of longtime West Maui resident, William Kalanikai “Uncle Billy” Gonzales, who was fatally injured late last year after being struck by a private boat in waters off of Hanakao’o Beach.

SB2933 was passed by the House Finance Committee on Wednesday, April 4, 2012, and now heads to the full House for voting.

The measure would appropriate funds for swim zone buoys at Kamaole Beach in South Maui. It would also establish a West Maui Ocean Recreation Management Area Advisory Committee to make recommendations on issues relating to state waters within the West Maui area, particularly with respect to Ka’anapali.