Bill > SR77

This resolution urges the Hawaii Department of Agriculture and the Maui County Department of Agriculture to take meaningful action to address the axis deer overpopulation problem. The resolution highlights the potential benefits of processing locally-hunted axis deer meat, including supporting the local economy, providing access to local food, and mitigating environmental issues caused by deer overgrazing. Specifically, the resolution calls for implementing policies to make United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) meat inspections and processing facilities more accessible and affordable for local hunters. It also recommends creating a joint task force to investigate and develop plans for processing and distributing axis deer meat to the community. The task force would be required to submit a report detailing the program's accomplishments and challenges, along with potential legislative recommendations, by November 30, 2025. The resolution draws inspiration from other states like Pennsylvania, which have successfully implemented programs to distribute locally-hunted meat, and aims to address current USDA inspection requirements that limit hunters' ability to manage the deer population effectively.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SR&billnumber=77&year=2025