The measure was introduced by Senate President Mlib Tmetuchl is an amendment to the law signed in 1981 by former President Haruo Remeliik .
The current law bans the taking of fruit dove or “Belochel”.Senate Bill No. 8-55 stated that it has been over 25 years since Belochel which is considered to be one of Palau’s special cultural dish eaten on special occasions.The bill said that by allowing for the hunting of Belochel for a period of two months every calendar year is a sustainable way to enjoy Belochel while securing that future generations will also have the opportunity to enjoy this delicacy.The hunting will only be open for two months, while the rest of the year it is considered a misdemeanor and shall be imprisoned for not more than six months or fined not more than $100.
