HI HR56

Requests the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization (UHERO) to convene a working group to establish protocol and factors for studying economic impacts of possible changes to coffee labeling laws on the Kona coffee industry.

UHERO's Executive Director will chair the working group and invite representatives from the Board of Agriculture, Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Kona Coffee Farmers Association, Hawaii Coffee Association, Hawaii Farm Bureau, and Hawaii Farmers Union United.

Addresses decades of contentious debate over Kona coffee labeling requirements, including minimum percentage content standards, with stakeholders requesting a neutral economic impact study.

Working group must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2017 Regular Session convenes.

Requires certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to all participating agencies and organizations identified in the working group membership.