Communications - Expression of Individual Opinions - for the 13th of August
In the heart of Hawaii, a new law aimed at controlling the feral cat population has been passed, but questions about its effectiveness and enforcement persist.
The law, known as Bill 51, prohibits feeding feral animals, including cats, on county property. However, it allows for exemptions for "certified" feeders, a provision that has been met with criticism from conservation groups.
Gavin Murphy, a prominent figure in the development industry, recently visited Hawaii from Aotearoa/New Zealand. He met with legislators and Mayor Kimo Alameda to discuss the success of a geothermal project he had worked on with Innovations Development Group (IDG) and the Eastland Company. Murphy expressed his enthusiasm for IDG's native-to-native model, which has worked well for Maori trusts.
Meanwhile, Dr. Bridget Lynne provided an informative op-ed about the geothermal project for the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. However, the feral cat issue seems to be a different matter. The county claims to have resolved the problem, but the writer expresses skepticism about this claim, citing a lack of action in enforcing various laws.
The writer notes the disregard for laws regarding expired safety inspection stickers, disregard of red lights, and dogs running unleashed on Coconut Island, suggesting that the county's approach to law enforcement may be inconsistent.
The new law aims to directly reduce feral cat sustainability by prohibiting feeding, a key element in population maintenance. However, its effectiveness is compromised by the allowed exemptions and enforcement issues. Other laws or programs that do not prohibit feeding or allow Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) exclusively have not shown strong effectiveness in population control or ecological protection in Hawaii's context.
Malama Solomon, a former state senator for District 4 and currently a senior advisor to Waika Consulting, urges naysayers, loud voices, and reporters to do their homework before opposing the geothermal project. Solomon believes the project will lead to a better future for all.
As the county grapples with the feral cat issue, the writer hopes for a ticket to be issued to a senior citizen feeding cats to be televised, highlighting the need for enforcement of the new law. The writer also questions if the county will take action against individuals who refuse to pay fines.
In conclusion, the new law represents a step toward stronger control of feral cats, but its effectiveness is compromised by loopholes and enforcement issues. It remains to be seen how the county will address these challenges and whether the new law will lead to a significant reduction in the feral cat population.
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