HI HCR187

Request the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to conduct a study on agricultural cooperatives in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

Study must examine the structure of agricultural cooperatives in other states, including regulations regarding formation, financing, and governance

Study must review state government efforts to regulate or support agricultural cooperatives and assess potential benefits to Hawaii's farmers, industries, and economy

Require submission of findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2021 Regular Session convenes

Agricultural cooperatives are defined as entities owned and democratically controlled by members, with limited individual investment returns and equitable profit distribution based on member usage