Hawaii governor vetoes measure aimed at boat tours that feed, observe sharks

HI gov. vetoes bill aimed at banning shark feeding

HONOLULU — Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle has vetoed legislation that would have banned shark feeding, including by boat tours that offer a close-up look at sharks.

In her veto message Tuesday, Lingle said the bill violated the state constitution by addressing more than one subject.

The measure initially dealt with impoundment costs of vessels left moored without authorization. The shark tour language was added later.

Officials say tours that feed sharks continue despite existing state and federal bans because of blurred jurisdictional boundaries, a shortage of enforcement officers, and inadequate penalties.

The measure would have set civil penalties for shark tours, including vessel forfeiture.