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 goals including protecting agricultural production, creating new industry, recruiting youth for agricultural economy, and promoting water and pesticide-reducing farming techniques.

Feasibility study shall include research on agricultural technology zoning in other jurisdictions, identification of suitable areas in Honolulu, funding and staffing requirements, and recommendations for state and county legislation.

Department of Agriculture shall request assistance from 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 shall submit findings and recommendations to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the 2020 regular session; appropriates unspecified funds for fiscal years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021.