HI HB1951

Establishes a Center on Biosecurity Research, Education, and Extension at the University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience to address invasive species threats including coconut rhinoceros beetle, coffee berry borer, axis deer, wild pigs, and coqui frogs

Directs the center to develop predictive risk assessment models, rapid detection methods, tracking systems, and eradication protocols for invasive species, including use of detector canines

Requires evaluation of biocontrol agents under biocontainment and identification of chemical control options through the IR-4 project for registration in Hawaii

Creates 11 full-time equivalent positions including extension agents in wildlife and weed management, a risk assessment scientist, data manager, laboratory technicians, and administrative support staff

Appropriates unspecified general fund amounts for fiscal year 2026-2027 covering planning, biocontainment lab construction, office/laboratory building with outdoor canine facility, and staffing costs