Bill > HR487

This bill addresses invasive species protection for Hawaii by establishing comprehensive preclearance quarantine inspection requirements for all domestic and international travel to and from the state. The bill mandates that the Secretary of Agriculture, in cooperation with multiple federal agencies and the Hawaii state government, conduct visual, x-ray, and canine inspections of persons, baggage, cargo, and other articles to screen for high-risk invasive species and agricultural materials. These inspections will be conducted at departure and interline airports, ports of departure, and postal service sectional center facilities prior to travel. The Secretary of Agriculture must develop and publish a list of specific items subject to inspection within 180 days of the act's enactment. The bill also authorizes the seizure and disposal of high-risk invasive species and agricultural materials discovered during inspections. Additionally, the legislation amends existing laws to allow for the collection of fees to cover the cost of these inspection services, ensuring that the comprehensive screening process can be financially sustained. The overall goal is to protect Hawaii's unique ecosystem by preventing the introduction of potentially harmful invasive species through stringent pre-travel screening procedures.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/487/all-info