Bill > SB2

This bill establishes a two-year Fruit Tree Harvest Pilot Program within specific Hawaii districts, requiring state agencies to plant fruit trees in new or renovated landscaping projects wherever trees are being integrated into building, highway, or facility designs. The program allows any person to freely harvest fruit from these trees without requiring a permit, though the State retains the right to prevent trespassing. State agencies and employees will be immune from civil or criminal liability for any injuries or illnesses that might result from harvesting or consuming the fruit, including food-borne illnesses. The pilot program will run until July 30, 2027, and participating state agencies are required to collaborate and submit a comprehensive report to the legislature before the 2027 regular session, detailing their findings, recommendations, and whether the program should be expanded statewide. Notably, the bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2491, which appears to be a typographical error and likely meant to be 2024 or 2025.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2&year=2026