HI SB548

Appropriates funds from general revenues for the Native Resources and Fire Protection Program and Hawaii Invasive Species Council for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to control and eradicate invasive species (specific dollar amount blank in bill text).

Allocates approximately 90% of the Hawaii Invasive Species Council's current annual funding of $5,750,000 to a competitive grant program supporting organizations that control pests like the little fire ant, coqui frog, and rapid ohia death fungus.

Addresses funding shortfall noting the current allocation has not increased in four years and covers less than 50% of competitive grant proposals received, limiting efforts to containment rather than eradication.

Directs the Department of Land and Natural Resources to expend the appropriated funds for invasive species management purposes.

Effective date: January 1, 2050.