Bill > SB2404

This bill aims to revitalize and enhance the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity's agricultural statistics program by formally establishing it and allocating funds for its operation. The program will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and reporting data on the movement of fresh fruits and vegetables within and between islands, and will develop electronic systems to manage this information. It will also conduct regular, specific surveys on various agricultural activities, including agricultural theft, tourism, aquaculture, coffee, crop and livestock losses, farm technology, horticulture, livestock, producer expansion, seeds, tropical fruits (defined broadly to include items like taro and herbs), and vegetables, as well as any other areas deemed necessary. The data collected will be kept confidential, only disclosed in aggregate forms that do not identify individuals or entities, and the department is authorized to collaborate with various national and local entities, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the University of Hawaii, and partner with local producers and businesses to improve data collection and access. The bill also appropriates funds for new positions like agricultural economists and research statisticians, office space, equipment, electronic systems, and contracted surveys, with the goal of supporting strategic growth in Hawaii's agricultural sector and meeting purchasing goals set by other acts like the Farm to School Act.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2404&year=2026