Call to action HB2476 – Banning Surfing on Weekends and Holidays
Dear Surf School Operators,
I hope this message finds you well. Today, I reach out to you with a matter of urgent concern that affects us all — the proposed legislation HB2476 HD1, which seeks to prohibit commercial activities originating from the shoreline in ocean recreation management areas statewide on weekends, state holidays, and federal holidays.
This legislation, while well-intentioned in its efforts to protect our coastal environments and ensure public access to beaches for everyone, poses significant threats to our local businesses, cultural heritage, public safety, and the very fabric of our community on the North Shore of Oahu.
Why Your Voice Matters:
Local Businesses at Risk: The proposed restrictions would eliminate crucial operational days, severely impacting businesses reliant on weekend and holiday traffic.Cultural Impact: Surfing, an integral part of our cultural heritage, could be further restricted, limiting the transmission of this cultural practice.Safety Concerns: The presence of professional surf instructors, who play a vital role in beach safety, would be significantly reduced, increasing the risk of water-related accidents.Increased Risk of Unsupervised Activities: With restrictions in place, individuals may engage in unsafe, unsupervised water activities, especially in areas known for dangerous waves.Disregard for Local Management: The North Shore’s existing regulations and the minimal impact of surf lessons, confined to […]