HI SB2951

Appropriates funds from general revenues to the Agribusiness Development Corporation for maintenance and improvements to the East Kauai irrigation system for fiscal year 2024-2025.

Appropriates funds to establish and staff full-time equivalent positions within the Agribusiness Development Corporation to maintain and improve the East Kauai irrigation system.

Recognizes the East Kauai irrigation system as a critical infrastructure serving approximately 5,920 acres of agricultural land on Kauai and supporting the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands' 500,000 gallons per day water reservation from the Wailua River.

Declares that proposed improvements could potentially expand agricultural service area by approximately 300 acres and that the century-old system requires repair and renovation to prevent loss of agricultural productivity.

Contains appropriations that exceed the state general fund expenditure ceiling for fiscal year 2024-2025, with reasons cited as public interest necessity and addressing identified needs.