Bill > SB563

This bill directs the Department of Agriculture to conduct a comprehensive statewide agricultural water infrastructure study in collaboration with the Agribusiness Development Corporation and county governments. The study will create a detailed inventory of agricultural water-related infrastructure, including wells, irrigation ditches, reservoirs, and pumping stations, with the goal of assessing their current condition, maintenance needs, and potential future investment requirements. Recognizing that water infrastructure management is currently fragmented across multiple state agencies, the bill aims to develop a tracking system and generate a report with findings and recommendations to be submitted to the legislature by November 1, 2027. The legislation acknowledges the critical role of water infrastructure in Hawaii's food production and seeks to address the current lack of a comprehensive data system for monitoring these resources. The bill includes an appropriation of funds for fiscal year 2025-2026 to support the study, with the ultimate effect date set for July 1, 2050, allowing ample time for implementation and analysis.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=563&year=2026