Bill > SB509

This bill addresses Hawaii's limited slaughterhouse infrastructure by requiring the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to identify suitable sites statewide for developing new slaughterhouses, in collaboration with the Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC). The ADC will be responsible for planning, designing, constructing, and operating these new facilities, with a focus on processing locally raised animals such as axis deer, hogs, sheep, and goats. The bill emphasizes the importance of enhancing local food sustainability, reducing reliance on imported food, and supporting the agricultural sector by creating more processing capacity for locally raised livestock. Key considerations for site selection will include proximity to livestock production areas, potential environmental impacts, available resources, and community needs. The bill also mandates that new slaughterhouses comply with United States Department of Agriculture regulations, state health department requirements, and local health and safety standards. To support these efforts, the bill appropriates $200,000 for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to fund the development of these slaughterhouse facilities, with the goal of increasing local food production, supporting farmers and ranchers, and contributing to the state's economic and agricultural resilience.

Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=509&year=2026