Hawaii is one of few locations in the world where manta rays can be observed regularly in the wild, however, there is currently no protection for these manta rays in state waters. Manta rays around the world are being killed for usage in traditional Asian medicines, while studies in Hawaii have shown that the populations have limited migration between islands and extremely low reproductive rates. Only 154 individuals have been identified in Kona since 1992, and the species is extremely susceptible to overfishing.

Two bills, HB366 and SB394, have been introduced in the Hawaii State House and Senate this year to prohibit the capture or killing of manta rays. Both must survive numerous committee hearings before they can be passed into law, and Hawaii’s manta lovers are begging anyone who cares about these beautiful animals to submit testimony in support of HB366 and SB394 to .