HI SR31

Requests the Department of Agriculture to establish an inter-governmental Kona Area agricultural working group to develop and implement a comprehensive plan for agriculture, affordable housing, and economic development.

Working group must develop a framework addressing ten priority areas including: improving inter-agency communication, increasing agricultural profitability, securing affordable farmland, providing adequate water resources, reducing energy costs, managing waste locally, promoting environmental conservation, facilitating agricultural research, and leveraging federal Opportunity Zone investments.

Working group membership includes representatives from 11 organizations: Department of Agriculture (chair), one Senate member, one House member, Department of Business/Economic Development/Tourism, Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, Department of Health, Department of Transportation, University of Hawaii System, County of Hawaii Mayor's office, County Environmental Management, and County Water Supply.

Requires the working group to submit a report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2022 Regular Session convenes.