HB2083

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.B. NO.	2083
TWENTY-FOURTH LEGISLATURE, 2008
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that our farmers and ranchers are faced with increasingly difficult challenges, both from within the state and from abroad. Rising prices for cost elements such as energy, feedstock, and transportation, as well as competition from foreign countries with cheap labor represent just two of several factors that threaten the long-term viability of our local agricultural industry.

The legislature also finds that it is in the public interest to support our farmers and ranchers. Hawaii's agriculture provides fresh, high-quality products for consumers and rewarding career options for local residents. In addition, a vibrant agricultural industry helps to preserve the lush greenery of our unique and beautiful natural environment. Locally-grown food also helps to make our state more self-sufficient and less reliant on imports.

To assist this important industry, the legislature further finds that there is a critical need for the establishment of a state-managed agricultural facility to process raw agricultural products. This facility, to include kitchen facilities and packaging assistance, will serve multiple users for the production of value-added agricultural products.

The purpose of this Act is to provide funds for the establishment of a state-managed agricultural processing facility.

SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2008-2009 for the establishment of a state-managed agricultural processing facility, serving multiple users and including kitchen facilities and packaging assistance, for the production of value-added agricultural products.

The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of agriculture for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2008.

INTRODUCED BY:	_____________________________