HI HR186

Requests the Department of Health to conduct a study on the traditional Hawaiian practice of sun-drying fish to balance cultural preservation with public health protection.

Directs the Department of Health to extend food establishment permits for sun-dried fish businesses while the study is being conducted.

Requires the Department of Health to submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2015 Regular Session convenes.

References a 2011 exemption for hand-pounded pa'i'ai production as a model for recognizing Hawaiian cultural food practices, with conditions including direct-to-consumer sales and Department of Health compliance rules.

Notes that current federal Food and Drug Administration regulations on temperature and water activity levels conflict with the traditional sun-drying method, which requires more than four hours at certain temperatures.