Bill > SB128

This bill establishes a new crime of criminal trespass on agricultural land in Hawaii, addressing concerns about rising agricultural theft and vandalism that reportedly cost farmers up to $14 million annually. The legislation creates a specific legal framework for trespassing on agricultural properties, defining such land as areas used for farming, livestock, and related activities. Under the new law, individuals who knowingly enter or remain unlawfully on agricultural land can be charged with a petty misdemeanor and face escalating fines: $500 for a first offense, $1,500 for a second offense, $2,000 for a third offense, and $2,500 for subsequent offenses. The bill includes exceptions for process servers and professional land surveyors performing their duties. Additionally, convicted trespassers will be required to pay restitution to landowners for any property damage, with the amount being at least twice the cost of the damage. The bill also introduces a significant consequence for those convicted of agricultural land trespass: they will be prohibited from owning, possessing, or controlling firearms and ammunition. The legislation was partly inspired by a specific incident involving the death of Cranston Pia in 2024, who was shot while protecting his livestock from trespassers' hunting dogs, and aims to provide stronger legal protections for agricultural landowners.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=128&year=2026