Bill > HB1602

This bill appropriates funds to establish one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) grant specialist position within the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, a state agency responsible for overseeing agricultural matters. The purpose of this new position is to help Hawaii's farmers and ranchers, who often face difficulties securing financial support, navigate the complex application processes for grants. These grants, available from sources like the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the State, counties, and private entities, can help farmers and ranchers increase production, create new business opportunities, and boost employment in the agricultural sector. The grant specialist will assist applicants in obtaining and fulfilling the requirements of these grants, with a priority given to those who produce local food consumed within the State. This initiative is intended to address the challenges farmers and ranchers face in accessing crucial funding due to the complexity of grant applications, and the bill is set to take effect on July 1, 3000.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1602&year=2026