HI HB481

Requires the Department of Agriculture to establish a pilot pesticide treatment coupon project in Hawaii County to address the little fire ant (Wasmannia auropunctata) infestation.

Distributes free coupons redeemable for pesticides and equipment at suppliers in Hawaii County to residents and property owners who report and verify little fire ant presence on their property.

Each coupon covers a one-year supply of the department's recommended treatment plan, with value not exceeding the cost of that treatment plan.

Department must provide recipients with information on proper usage and health and safety precautions for the recommended pesticide treatment.

Requires the Department of Agriculture to report to the legislature by twenty days before the 2018 regular session on implementation progress and recommendations on whether to continue, terminate, or modify the pilot project.

Appropriates an unspecified amount from general revenues for fiscal years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 to fund the coupon project.