HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.B. NO.	2571
TWENTY-SEVENTH LEGISLATURE, 2014
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

making an appropriation for invasive species Control.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that the Wasmannia auropunctata, known as the little fire ant, threatens native biodiversity, alters tropical ecosystems, is detrimental to human health, impedes tourism, diminishes agricultural productivity, mars horticulture sales, and accordingly ranks among the world's worst invasive species.  Human behaviors and habitats allow the little fire ant to move quickly, disperse widely, produce high density populations, and inhabit locations not otherwise possible.

     The legislature also finds that Hawaii's tropical climate is ideally suited for the colonization and growth of the little fire ant.  As of 2013, the little fire ant has been recorded in every county in the State.  Thus, prompt action is required to eliminate the spread of this invasive species.

     The purpose of this Act is to appropriate moneys to the department of land and natural resources, as the administrative host of the Hawaii invasive species council, to support invasive species prevention, control, outreach, and planning and to prevent the proliferation of the little fire ant, Wasmannia auropunctata, in the State.

     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 2014-2015 for

projects undertaken in accordance with the Hawaii invasive species council, including but not limited to invasive species prevention, control, outreach, research, and planning and preventing the proliferation of the little fire ant in the State.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of land and natural resources for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 3.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2014.

INTRODUCED BY:

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Report Title:

Invasive Species Council; Appropriation

Description:

Appropriates funds for invasive species prevention, control, outreach, and planning relating to the Wasmannia auropunctata.

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.