HI HR118

Legislative Reference Bureau requested to convene an agricultural working group in collaboration with Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation to assess and recommend structural changes for Hawaii's agricultural industry in the 21st century.

Working group to include representatives from Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation (chair), Department of Agriculture, Department of Land and Natural Resources, University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, USDA Farm Service Agency, Hawaii Agricultural Resource Center, Agribusiness Development Corporation, and working agriculturalists from seed, livestock, produce, poultry, and aquaculture sectors.

Working group directed to explore state government's role in supporting agricultural self-sufficiency and export growth, streamline state department functions, increase access to federal and county programs, and identify private partnerships to reduce government dependence.

Legislative Reference Bureau required to submit working group findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2011 Regular Session convening.

Certified copies of resolution to be transmitted to relevant state and federal agencies, including the Director of Legislative Reference Bureau, Board chairs, university dean, and agricultural organizations.