HI SB1436

Requires the Department of Agriculture to conduct a feasibility study on establishing agricultural technology (ag-tech) zones in specific Honolulu areas: Kalihi-Palama, Kakaako, Moanalua, and Waianae coast.

Study must examine ag-tech zoning practices in other jurisdictions, identify suitable areas within Honolulu, determine funding and staffing needs, and recommend necessary state and county legislation.

Feasibility study shall address four key goals: protecting Hawaii's agricultural production, creating a new industry responsive to future food production challenges, recruiting youth for the agricultural economy, and promoting water and pesticide-reducing farming techniques.

Department of Agriculture must request assistance from the Department of Land and Natural Resources, University of Hawaii, Department of Business Economic Development and Tourism, Hawaii Community Development Authority, and City and County of Honolulu.

Department must submit feasibility study report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2020 regular session; appropriates funds for fiscal years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021.