Bill > HB884

This bill aims to restrict foreign ownership of agricultural lands in Hawaii by establishing a comprehensive legal framework that prohibits certain foreign parties from acquiring or owning agricultural land. The bill defines "prohibited foreign parties" broadly, including foreign governments, corporations organized in foreign countries, non-U.S. citizens not holding permanent residency, and entities with significant foreign control. To enforce these restrictions, the bill creates an Office of Agricultural Intelligence within the Department of Agriculture to investigate potential violations and report them to the Attorney General. The legislation allows resident aliens to own agricultural land during their residency but requires them to divest their holdings within two years of losing resident alien status. Violations of the law can result in civil actions leading to the forced sale of the agricultural land, and offenders may be charged with a class C felony. The bill is motivated by concerns about the dramatic increase in foreign-owned agricultural land in Hawaii (a 65% increase over five years) and potential negative impacts on local agricultural goals, productivity, and economic and national security. The legislation includes appropriations to establish the new Office of Agricultural Intelligence and will take effect on July 1, 2025.