HI HB1717

Appropriates funds to the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources at the University of Hawaii at Manoa to establish a foreign agriculture small equipment pilot program in collaboration with a University of Hawaii community college.

Program activities include identifying and purchasing foreign agricultural technology and equipment (including small tractors and retrofit engines) that comply with EPA emission standards, and establishing contact with manufacturers in Japan and other countries.

Requires evaluation of harvesting, weed management, and field preparation machinery through on-farm trials across multiple growing systems statewide, and conducting education and training workshops for agriculture producers.

Directs the College dean to submit a report to the legislature no later than twenty days before the 2023 regular legislative session with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation regarding program progress.

Takes effect on July 1, 2022.