HI SB2349

Establishes a temporary Restorative Aquaculture Development Program through the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity with performance objectives to be achieved by June 30, 2030, including reducing permit processing time to 12-15 months and pursuing at least $10 million in federal competitive grants.

Requires development of at least 25 new or expanded restorative aquaculture operations, restoration of at least 15 traditional Native Hawaiian fishponds, and creation of at least 250 direct jobs in aquaculture and related sectors.

Mandates establishment of three pilot demonstration sites for restorative aquaculture with monitoring protocols for carbon sequestration (targeting at least 2,500 tons of CO2 annually by 2030), water quality improvement, and habitat restoration of at least 200 coastal acres.

Creates a Restorative Aquaculture Advisory Council with representatives from state agencies, county planning departments, the legislature, University of Hawaii, commercial and Native Hawaiian aquaculture practitioners, and environmental organizations to meet quarterly.

Appropriates unspecified general funds for fiscal year 2026-2027, with 25% of infrastructure and workforce development funds directed to Native Hawaiian practitioners and traditional aquaculture systems; program sunsets June 30, 2030.