Bill > SB1582

This bill aims to recognize the coconut palm (cocos nucifera), or "niu" in Hawaiian, as both a culturally significant plant and a sustainable staple food source in Hawaii. The bill highlights the coconut palm's historical importance to Native Hawaiian culture, noting that early Hawaiians used virtually every part of the tree for food, water, tools, construction, and cultural practices. The legislature finds that coconut palms are an underutilized natural resource in Hawaii, with potential for enhancing food security, supporting local agriculture, and promoting economic development. By formally designating the coconut palm as a culturally significant plant and sustainable food source, the bill seeks to encourage local agricultural production, support coconut farmers and processors, and revitalize indigenous knowledge. The bill adds new sections to Hawaii Revised Statutes that officially recognize the coconut palm's cultural and agricultural significance, with the goal of maximizing its potential for public health, food assistance programs, and local food systems. The legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 3000, though this is likely a typographical error and meant to be a future date.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1582&year=2025