HI HB1150

Appropriates funds to the Department of Land and Natural Resources for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 to support the Hawaii Ant Lab in mitigating little fire ant infestations throughout the State.

Addresses funding shortfalls for the Hawaii Ant Lab, which was established in 2009 to research and combat rapidly spreading little fire ant populations that cause painful stings, property damage, and economic harm.

Restores ongoing funding after the lab's primary funding sources (Hawaii Invasive Species Council and Department of Agriculture) ceased due to budget cuts and repeal of the agricultural development and food security special fund.

References a one-time $500,000 appropriation made in 2022 that helped prevent staff hour reductions but notes uncertainty regarding long-term funding for 2023-2025 fiscal years.

Appropriation amount left blank in the bill text and directed to the native resources and fire protection program (LNR402) under the Department of Land and Natural Resources.