HI HB1529

Adds new section 141 to Hawaii Revised Statutes requiring the Department of Agriculture to ensure inclusion of socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers in development, adoption, implementation, and enforcement of food and agriculture laws, rules, policies, and programs.

Directs the department to consult with federal, state, and county agencies on opportunities for socially disadvantaged farmers and disseminate information about USDA, EPA, GAO, and OMB programs available to them.

Requires the department to evaluate boards, committees, commissions, and advisory panels related to farming for opportunities to include socially disadvantaged farmers and compile data on subsidy and state land lease allocation to these groups.

Defines "socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers" as members of groups subject to prejudice based on race, ethnicity, gender, or immigrant status, including Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, African Americans, Native Americans, Alaskan Natives, Latino/Latinx, Asian Americans, women, and immigrant communities.

Requires the Board of Agriculture chairperson to submit an annual report to the legislature no later than twenty days before each regular legislative session starting in 2023, including findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation on serving socially disadvantaged and female farmers and ranchers.