Bill > SB688

This bill aims to establish three full-time equivalent (FTE) grant specialist positions within Hawaii's Department of Agriculture to help farmers and ranchers more effectively access and secure grants from various sources, including the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), state, county, and private entities. The legislature recognizes that many farmers and ranchers struggle to navigate the complex grant application process due to a lack of technical expertise, which can deter them from applying for potentially beneficial funding. These grant specialists will be tasked with assisting agricultural producers in applying for, obtaining, and fulfilling grant requirements, with a specific priority on supporting farmers and ranchers who produce local food consumed within the state. The bill appropriates funding for these positions for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, with the goal of increasing production capacity, creating new business opportunities, and expanding employment in Hawaii's agricultural industry. While the bill specifies an unusual future effective date of July 1, 2050, this is likely a drafting error, and the intent is likely for the bill to take effect in the near future.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=688&year=2025