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HI HB2595
Bill
Status
3/6/2026
Primary Sponsor
Matthias Kusch
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AI Summary
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Establishes a two-year Regional Agricultural Feasibility and Food Systems Production Studies Working Group within the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity to conduct island- and region-specific agricultural feasibility studies across Hawaii.
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Working group includes representatives from UH Manoa College of Tropical Agriculture, Department of Business Economic Development and Tourism, Agribusiness Development Corporation, Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, and Department of Land and Natural Resources in advisory capacity.
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Studies will assess crop feasibility by region and climate zone, infrastructure constraints (processing, cold storage, water access), labor and mechanization needs, controlled environment agriculture opportunities, and alignment of agricultural supply with institutional procurement demands.
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Requires an interim report to the legislature by 20 days before the 2027 session and a final statewide report with island-specific assessments and investment strategies by 20 days before the 2028 session.
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Appropriates unspecified general funds for fiscal year 2026-2027, with the Act set to repeal on June 30, 2028.
Legislative Description
Relating To Regional Agriculture And Food Production.
Appropriation ($)
Last Action
The committee(s) on AEN recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes in AEN were as follows: 4 Aye(s): Senator(s) Gabbard, Richards, DeCoite, Rhoads; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 1 Excused: Senator(s) Awa.
3/16/2026