HI SB2758

Appropriates $443,483 for fiscal year 2020-2021 to fund 10 full-time equivalent positions within the Department of Land and Natural Resources to support the Hawaii Interagency Biosecurity Plan.

Establishes positions across multiple islands including two natural area reserves specialists on Kauai, two forestry and wildlife technicians each on Maui and Hawaii, forestry and wildlife workers on Maui and Oahu, one forester in the administrative office on Oahu, and one forester on Oahu.

Appropriates $172,369 for fiscal year 2020-2021 for vehicles, fuel, and other operating expenses necessary to detect and remove invasive species from the State's protected areas including forest reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, and natural area reserves.

Aims to improve the State's ability to detect and control rapid ohia death and other invasive species in protected sanctuaries and reserves as outlined in the Hawaii Interagency Biosecurity Plan.

Takes effect on July 1, 2020.