HI HR79

Requests the Governor to negotiate land exchanges trading state lands for private agricultural lands suitable for long-term diversified farming operations.

Directs the Governor to coordinate with the Department of Agriculture, Department of Land and Natural Resources, and other relevant state agencies holding title to state lands for potential exchange.

Aims to obtain large tracts of agricultural land for state leasing to farmers while providing private parties with urban lands along Oahu's rail transit corridor for affordable housing, workforce housing, and mixed-use development.

Requires the Governor to submit a report to the Legislature by 20 days prior to the 2018 Regular Session detailing the feasibility of land exchanges, suitable parcels, market values, and any necessary appropriations or legislative action.

Addresses Hawaii's dual crises of insufficient agricultural production (151,830 acres in crop production in 2017 versus 350,830 acres in 1980) and an estimated need for 24,551 housing units from 2016 to 2020.