HI HB1769

Appropriates funds from general revenues to the Department of Land and Natural Resources for fiscal year 2022-2023 to study and combat rapid ohia death in Hawaii.

Allocates appropriated funds for four purposes: survey and response to rapid ohia death, applied research on management tools, animal removal from fenced areas on Hawaii island, and public outreach on disease prevention.

Addresses the threat of rapid ohia death caused by two fungi species (Ceratocystis lukuohia and Ceratocystis huliohia) that have killed over one million ohia trees on Hawaii island and spread to other islands.

Notes that ohia comprises eighty percent of remaining native forests and is critical for Hawaiian culture, native ecosystems, water supply recharge, and cultural practices including hula.

Takes effect July 1, 2022.