HI HB773

Appropriates unspecified funding for fiscal year 2025-2026 to establish grant specialist positions within the Department of Agriculture

Grant specialists would assist Hawaii farmers and ranchers in applying for, obtaining, and fulfilling requirements of grants from USDA, state, county, and private sources

Priority assistance would go to farmers and ranchers who produce local food consumed at least partly within Hawaii

Addresses the legislature's concern that complex grant application processes deter farmers and ranchers who lack technical grant writing expertise

Effective date set as July 1, 3000 (placeholder date indicating further amendments expected)