Bill > HB776

This bill establishes the Hawaii Agricultural Transportation Assistance Program within the Department of Agriculture to help farmers and livestock producers manage high transportation costs caused by the state's geographic isolation. The program consists of two key components: a reimbursement program for geographically disadvantaged farmers and a grant program for small-scale farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers in rural or underserved areas. The reimbursement program will cover eligible transportation costs such as shipping fertilizers, seeds, equipment, livestock, feed, and finished agricultural goods between islands and to national or international markets. Applicants must be domiciled in Hawaii, provide documentation of transportation expenses, and meet specific eligibility criteria. The grant program will help subsidize transportation costs for moving agricultural products, inputs, and equipment within the state. The bill also creates a special fund to support these programs, which can receive legislative appropriations, federal funds, private contributions, and other revenues. Additionally, the Department of Agriculture is required to submit annual reports to the Legislature detailing the programs' participation, financial distributions, impact on agricultural productivity, and effectiveness. The bill aims to support Hawaii's agricultural sector by reducing transportation barriers, enhancing food security, and stimulating economic growth in rural communities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=776&year=2026