Bill > HB856

This bill seeks to establish and fund eight full-time agricultural technician positions and four full-time community coordinator positions at the University of Hawaii at Manoa's College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR). The legislature recognizes that these positions are crucial for supporting local agricultural research, extension services, and community engagement. Agricultural technicians will be essential for maintaining experimental plant and animal trials and managing research station facilities, while community coordinators will help connect CTAHR with local communities, offering educational programs for all ages. The bill appropriates $1,250,000 for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to support these positions, with the goal of addressing challenges faced by Hawaii's agricultural industries, such as economic impacts from pests, diseases, climate issues, and workforce development needs. The positions are intended to serve as regional hubs for agricultural research, education, and community support, ultimately benefiting local farmers, ranchers, and families. The act will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=856&year=2026