S.R. No. 124 Summary

• Requests the State Auditor to conduct a performance audit of the Department of Agriculture's aquaculture importation permit application procedures to determine causes of failures to comply with Hawaii Administrative Rules.

• Directs the State Auditor to submit findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2019 Regular Session convenes.

• Requires the Department of Agriculture to report all aquaculture importation permit applications received since 2011, including application dates, approval/disapproval dates, permit issuance dates, and explanations for delays beyond maximum timeframes established in Hawaii Administrative Rules.

• Addresses reports of permit applicants not receiving approvals within maximum time periods or within a reasonable time after expiration of those periods.

• Certified copies of the resolution must be transmitted to the State Auditor and each member of the Board of Agriculture.