HI HB984

Establishes a biotechnology task force within the University of Hawaii to identify barriers faced by businesses engaged in biotechnology research and develop recommendations for expediting permit processing.

Task force membership includes representatives from the University of Hawaii system (including tropical agriculture, medical school, and oceanography), Department of Agriculture, Department of Land and Natural Resources, Department of Health, Hawaii Science and Technology Council, and biotechnology industry businesses.

The University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources representative shall serve as chair of the task force.

Task force shall assess barriers related to specialized permitting needs, including importation of organisms typically classified as invasive species or hazardous materials.

Task force shall report findings and recommendations to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2012 regular legislative session convenes.