HI HB2138

Appropriates $300,000 from general revenues for fiscal year 2024-2025 to establish one full-time agriculture education coordinator position at the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources

Coordinator position supports implementation of a statewide coordinated framework for agriculture education across preschool through post-secondary levels in public, charter, and independent schools

Legislature finds Hawaii's average farmer age is 60 years and the state lacks sufficient farming workforce; agriculture education is essential to develop future farmers and increase food security and self-sufficiency

Funds support efforts to increase student enrollment in agriculture programs, train agriculture teachers, and expand higher education and apprenticeship opportunities in agriculture and food systems

Effective date: July 1, 3000 (note: appears to be a typographical error in the bill text)