H.B. 2617 Summary

• Establishes an Aquaculture Advisory Committee within the Department of Agriculture to provide guidance on supporting and strengthening aquaculture throughout Hawaii.

• Committee membership consists of 11 members: six producing aquafarmers (at least one from each county), two researchers, one extension/investment representative, and two seafood distribution industry representatives.

• Members appointed by the governor from nominees submitted by the board of agriculture chairperson serve two-year terms and are subject to Hawaii's open meetings law (chapter 92).

• Committee must meet at least quarterly to review the state's aquaculture industry status and make recommendations to the board of agriculture chairperson annually or more frequently as needed.

• Appropriates general revenues for fiscal year 2024-2025 to establish the committee; members serve without compensation but receive reimbursement for necessary expenses including travel.