Bill > SB128

This bill establishes a new criminal offense of trespassing on agricultural land in Hawaii, responding to rising concerns about agricultural theft, vandalism, and safety risks for farmers. The legislation defines criminal trespass as knowingly entering or remaining unlawfully on agricultural land, with specific exemptions for process servers and land surveyors performing professional duties. The bill introduces a graduated fine structure for offenders: first-time offenders will be fined $500, with subsequent offenses escalating to $2,500, and mandatory restitution of at least twice the amount of any property damage caused. Additionally, the bill amends existing firearm regulations to prohibit individuals convicted of criminal trespass on agricultural land from owning, possessing, or controlling firearms or ammunition. The legislation defines agricultural land broadly, including farming, livestock, and related activities, and aims to provide farmers with stronger legal protections against unauthorized entry and potential threats to their property and personal safety. The bill was partly motivated by specific incidents, such as the death of Cranston Pia in 2024, who was shot while protecting livestock from trespassers' hunting dogs, and seeks to address what legislators view as insufficient existing penalties for agricultural trespass.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=128&year=2025