It seems public interaction has become too close for comfort for spinner dolphins.

Often, their daytime rest is disturbed by snorkelers, kayakers and boaters. The dolphins aren't endangered, and we should keep it that way. Experts say the creatures need their privacy to rest and mate, to keep a healthy population.

And when humans come in contact with the spinner dolphins in the shallow waters off Makua Bay on O'ahu or Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island, too often the good intentions of tourists run counter to the dolphins' good health.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources has supported federal efforts to add protections for dolphins. And scientists at National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries Service rightly want laws that restrict human contact, including swimming and water play. We need some form of reasonable regulation, but NOAA wants public input before adopting new rules.

So, whether you view swimming with dolphins as your inalienable right, or believe it's time to give the spinners some privacy, now is the time to let your voice be heard.