summary
Introduced
01/23/2025
01/23/2025
In Committee
03/19/2025
03/19/2025
Crossed Over
02/27/2025
02/27/2025
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Appropriates funds to the Department of Agriculture for agricultural biosecurity and the prevention, detection, and control of invasive species in Maui County. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
AI Summary
This bill addresses agricultural biosecurity and invasive species prevention in Maui County by appropriating funds for targeted interventions across Molokai, Lanai, and Maui. Specifically, the bill allocates state general revenue funds for two primary purposes: first, to prevent and control little fire ant and coconut rhinoceros beetle infestations through hiring biosecurity professionals, and second, to combat the spread of coqui frogs. The funding will support the University of Hawaii Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit's Maui Invasive Species Committee and its Molokai subcommittees, including providing equipment and supplies to residents for treating infestations. The bill also establishes a new Lanai invasive species committee as a sub-branch of the Maui committee. The legislation is motivated by the recognition that invasive species pose significant risks to Hawaii's unique ecosystems, agriculture, and cultural heritage, and that early prevention and detection can potentially save millions of dollars in long-term damage. The appropriations are designated for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, with the Act set to take effect on July 1, 2050, reflecting a long-term strategic approach to managing biological threats in the region.
Committee Categories
Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance
Sponsors (10)
Terez Amato (D)*,
Rachele Fernandez Lamosao (D)*,
Kim Iwamoto (D)*,
Darius Kila (D)*,
Tyson Miyake (D)*,
Amy Perruso (D)*,
Mahina Poepoe (D)*,
Kanani Souza (R)*,
Jenna Takenouchi (D)*,
Chris Todd (D)*,
Last Action
Carried over to 2026 Regular Session. (on 12/08/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
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