Bill > SB1086

This bill authorizes the Director of Finance to issue general obligation bonds (a type of government debt instrument) and appropriate funds for capital improvement projects targeting Hawaii's irrigation systems. The legislation recognizes the critical importance of reliable irrigation infrastructure for the state's agricultural industry, particularly in light of increasing drought conditions. The bill allows the Department of Agriculture to receive and expend funds for irrigation system improvements during fiscal year 2025-2026, with a unique provision that prevents the appropriated funds from lapsing (being lost) at the end of the typical fiscal biennium. Instead, any unencumbered funds will lapse specifically on June 30, 2028. While the specific dollar amount for the bond issuance is not specified in the bill text (showing as a blank space), the purpose is clearly to provide financial resources for maintaining and upgrading the state's water delivery systems for agricultural use. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2050, which is a notable future date that suggests long-term planning for the state's agricultural infrastructure.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1086&year=2026