HI SB2729

Appropriates funds to the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources and Sea Grant College Program to establish two permanent aquaculture extension agent positions and one permanent aquaculture researcher position for fiscal year 2020-2021.

Establishes positions to support sustainable growth of Hawaii's aquaculture industry, which generated $76.4 million in farm gate value in 2017 and is the third highest contributor to diversified agriculture in the state.

Addresses Hawaii's vulnerability from importing approximately 90 percent of its food by increasing local food production capacity and supporting biosecurity infrastructure.

Aligns with action items 1.13, 1.7, and 4.6 from the Hawaii Interagency Biosecurity Plan (2017-2027) related to aquaculture research, screening protocols, and facility safety assessments.

Takes effect on July 1, 2020.