HI HCR79

Request the Chairperson of the Board of Agriculture to convene a task force to study whether Hawaii should adopt fish labeling laws distinguishing line-caught fish from net-caught and farm-raised fish.

Task force to examine specific labeling terms such as "line caught," "wild," "wild-caught," "net caught," "open waters," and "Hawaiian."

Task force to study which entities (wholesalers, retailers, restaurants) should be subject to labeling requirements, enforcement mechanisms, penalties for mislabeling, and other states' and federal fish labeling laws.

Task force composition includes the Board of Agriculture Chairperson (chair), Board of Land and Natural Resources Chairperson, Directors of Health and Business/Economic Development/Tourism, a USDA representative, United Fish Agency representative, and a commercial fishing community member designated by the Governor.

Task force must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2014 Regular Session convenes.