HI HCR118

Recognizes that pollinator species (honeybees, native bees, and birds) are vital to Hawaii's agricultural production, with nearly 70 percent of the State's food crops depending on pollination.

Identifies neonicotinoid insecticides as a significant threat to native Hawaiian pollinators, including seven endangered species of Hawaiian yellow-faced bees added to federal protection lists in 2016.

Notes that neonicotinoids are absorbed into plants and distributed throughout their vascular systems, making them highly persistent in the environment and widely used in seed coatings, fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals.

Urges the Department of Land and Natural Resources and Department of Agriculture to take measures authorized by law to limit pollinator exposure to neonicotinoids.

Requires both departments to submit a report detailing their specific measures and any proposed legislation to limit neonicotinoid exposure no later than twenty days before the 2020 Regular Session convenes.