HI SB2048

Prohibits the sale, barter, or donation of any item or material that is pest-infested, is itself a pest, or is otherwise prohibited under Hawaii's plant quarantine laws.

Authorizes the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity to quarantine, treat, or destroy pest-infested items, with all costs borne by the owner and no state liability for economic losses.

Exempts items used for research or testing with department permits and materials containing biocontrol agents transferred under appropriate permits.

Establishes penalties of $100 to $10,000 for first violations, increasing to $500 to $25,000 for second violations within five years.

Takes effect July 1, 2050, and addresses invasive species pathways such as little fire ants and coqui frogs spread through imported potted plants sold by nurseries.