Bill > SB2712

This bill establishes the Hawaii Hemp Special Fund to support the growth of industrial hemp in the state, which is defined as the Cannabis sativa L. plant with a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration of 0.3% or less on a dry weight basis, and is distinct from controlled substances. The fund will provide grants for producers, processors, and manufacturers to expand industrial hemp production and processing, as well as incentives for farmers and support for research and development. It also creates a Hemp Paper Packaging Pilot Program to evaluate locally made packaging from industrial hemp for state and county use, with provisions for price preferences for eligible products after July 1, 2027. The bill requires the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity to adopt rules for program implementation and mandates annual reports to the Legislature detailing fund usage, awardees, and program outcomes. Importantly, this legislation explicitly states that it does not authorize cannabinoid production or use and emphasizes compliance with federal and state laws. The bill includes appropriations for the fund and the pilot program, with the entire act set to expire on June 30, 2030, and taking effect on July 1, 2050.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2712&year=2026