HI HB1229

Appropriates funds to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to provide education and support to local businesses regarding FDA guidance on colored sea salt products for fiscal years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021.

Requires private sea salt industry businesses to collectively contribute one-half of the cost to conduct a study to be submitted to the FDA for approval of sea salt color additives as a condition of releasing appropriated funds.

Recognizes the growing popularity of Hawaii-made sea salt products colored with Hawaiian charcoal, volcanic clay, and other natural ingredients as important to the State's brand.

Addresses FDA industry guidance regarding color additives in sea salt products and the requirement for manufacturers to obtain FDA approval through the color additive petition process.

Effective date July 1, 2112.