HI SR107

Acknowledges the positive impact and work of the Taro Security and Purity Task Force, which was created in 2008 to support kalo (taro) farming vitality, economic viability, and perpetuation in Hawaii.

Supports the reformation of the Task Force as a legislatively enabled body if the taro farming community determines the need to do so, noting the Task Force is scheduled to dissolve on June 30, 2015.

Requests that if reformed, the body continue working with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Department of Land and Natural Resources, and Department of Agriculture to determine the most appropriate agency relationship.

References an online petition with over 1,700 signatures supporting continuation of a transparent entity to advocate for taro issues and implement the Task Force's 87 strategic recommendations from its 2010 and 2014 reports.

Recognizes the cultural, nutritional, and food security significance of kalo to Hawaii, noting local production has declined from approximately 30,000 acres in 1850 to 500 acres today while the state imports approximately 2 million pounds annually.