Bill > SB746

This bill establishes a two-year pilot program to combat the coconut rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros), an invasive species that threatens Hawaii's agricultural and cultural landscapes. The program, administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), will focus on counties with populations over 500,000 and incentivize community members—including residents, farmers, military personnel, and workers in various industries—to collect and submit coconut rhinoceros beetles and their larvae. The DLNR will provide compensation for these submissions, with the Hawaii Invasive Species Council overseeing the program to ensure stakeholder participation. Importantly, the compensation will not apply to beetles or larvae intentionally bred by humans. The bill requires the DLNR to submit a comprehensive report to the Legislature before the 2026 regular session, detailing the program's findings and recommendations. Funding will be appropriated from general state revenues to cover costs such as community compensation, program administration, engagement workshops, digital campaigns, media advertising, and educational materials. The pilot program aims to address the significant economic and cultural damages caused by these beetles, which have been spreading across Hawaiian islands since 2013 and threaten important plants like coconut palms, hala, taro, sugarcane, and banana.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=746&year=2026