HI HR116

Urges the Department of Agriculture to collaborate with the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to create economic development initiatives for Native Hawaiian plants and resources.

Identifies Hawaii as the endangered species capital of the world with over 300 endangered plants, and notes that Native Hawaiian plants require less water, fertilizer, and pruning than non-native plants.

Recognizes that growing Native Hawaiian plants develops knowledge of and appreciation for Hawaiian culture and history, and that state incentives for nurseries would increase availability of native plants.

Requests the Department of Agriculture submit a report to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2015 Regular Session on progress toward establishing economic development initiatives for Native Hawaiian plants.

Directs certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Chairperson of the Board of Agriculture and the Director of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism.