HI HB2431

Appropriates funds to the Hawaii invasive species council for fiscal year 2014-2015 to create a statewide public awareness and education campaign on little fire ants (Wasmannia auropunctata).

Directs the Department of Land and Natural Resources to expend the appropriated funds for the campaign, with emphasis on testing and detecting little fire ants in trees, plants, soil, and mulch.

Addresses the little fire ant invasion first discovered in Hawaii in 1999, now found on the islands of Hawaii, Kauai, Maui, and Oahu, which causes painful stings to livestock and pets and threatens ground-nesting birds and sea turtles.

Takes effect on July 1, 2014.