Bill > SB2321

This bill establishes a two-year pilot program within the department of agriculture and biosecurity to address the invasive two-lined spittlebug, an insect that damages important forage grasses for Hawaii's valuable livestock industry, which is a significant economic driver and employer. The program will aim to identify infestations, develop management plans using methods like insecticides and grazing, study the cost-effectiveness of mitigation techniques, educate others on preventing the pest's spread via heavy machinery, reduce spittlebug populations, and provide financial support to ranchers for control measures. The department will report to the Legislature in 2027 and 2028 on the program's progress, expenditures, and recommendations, and funds are appropriated for its operation, with the program set to begin on July 1, 2050.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2321&year=2026