HI SCR129

Encourages the Department of Agriculture and tea industry to collaborate on proposed legislation to define tea as an agricultural commodity under Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 147.

Directs collaboration to establish standards defining geographical region designations for tea grown in Hawaii, allowing growers to register products by origin and benefit from Hawaii's brand recognition.

Requests the Department of Agriculture submit a report to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2017 Regular Session detailing the proposed legislation developed with the tea industry.

Recognizes tea as a significant niche crop with growing potential in Hawaii, particularly on the Hilo side of the Big Island where volcanic soil conditions support tea cultivation.

Requires transmission of a certified copy of the concurrent resolution to the Chairperson of the Board of Agriculture.