Bill > SB678

This bill establishes the Agricultural Development and Food Security Special Fund within Hawaii's state treasury, which will be funded by a portion of the existing Environmental Response, Energy, and Food Security Tax levied on petroleum products and fossil fuels. The fund can be used for a wide range of agricultural support activities, including awarding grants to farmers, acquiring and improving agricultural land and infrastructure, purchasing agricultural equipment, conducting agricultural research, funding agricultural inspector positions, promoting local agricultural products, improving water quality, and procuring locally produced agricultural products during emergencies. Grant applicants must meet various requirements, such as being properly licensed, providing detailed project plans, using funds exclusively for agricultural purposes, complying with non-discrimination laws, and agreeing to be audited. The Department of Agriculture will be required to submit an annual report to the legislature detailing the fund's spending, targeted markets, beneficiaries, and specific measurable outcomes. The bill specifies that the new fund and tax allocation will take effect on July 1, 2050, and aims to increase local agricultural production and reduce food importation in Hawaii.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=678&year=2025