S.C.R. NO. 191 Summary

• Urges the Department of Agriculture to adopt proposed amendments to chapter 4-72, Hawaii Administrative Rules (Plant and Non-Domestic Animal Quarantine Plant Intrastate Rules) to prevent the spread of invasive pests within Hawaii.

• Proposed amendments were unanimously approved by the Advisory Committee on Plants and Animals (February 15, 2023), Board of Agriculture (February 28, 2023), and Small Business Regulatory Review Board (May 30, 2023), with public notice and testimony opportunities.

• Amendments address the spread of coconut rhinoceros beetle, coqui frog, and little fire ants by providing the Department authority to stop the movement of pest-infested merchandise for sale to the public without requiring voluntary compliance.

• New authorities in proposed section 4-72-5 apply to businesses selling directly to the public but exclude farms, ranches, and other agricultural production areas that do not sell on-site directly to consumers.

• Requires certified copies be transmitted to the Governor, Chairperson of the Board of Agriculture, and Mayors of each county.