HB 774 Summary

• Establishes a statewide food and product innovation network within the Agribusiness Development Corporation to support scaling of food and value-added products from research to commercialization.

• Creates a centralized network coordinating multiple facilities across islands including future developments in Kekaha (Kauai), Hawaii island, Maui, Molokai, and Oahu, plus existing facilities in Hilo and University of Hawaii locations.

• Network shall provide courses, equipment access, expert advice, certification support, and business development assistance to help businesses capitalize on "Hawaii made" brand and increase exports.

• Limits each county to no more than two facilities producing products labeled with Hawaii origin designations per section 486-119.

• Appropriates $385,289 annually for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to the Department of Health, including $172,884 for staffing (2.0 FTE positions) and $212,405 for operating expenses.